2020 DODGE JOURNEY air conditioning

70 GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
CLIMATE CONTROL FUNCTIONS
A/C (Air Conditioning)

The Air Conditioning (A/C) button allows the
operator to manually activate or deactivate
the air conditioning system. When the air
c o

nditioning system is turned on, cool
dehumidified air will flow through the outlets into
the cabin. For improved fuel economy, press the
A/C button to turn off the air conditioning and
manually adjust the blower and airflow mode
settings. Also, make sure to select only Panel,
Bi-Level, or Floor modes.

NOTE:
For Manual Climate Controls, if the system is
in Mix, Floor or Defrost Mode, the A/C can be
turned off, but the A/C system shall remain
active to prevent fogging of the windows.
If fog or mist appears on the windshield or
side glass, select Defrost mode, and increase
blower speed if needed.
If your air conditioning performance seems
lower than expected, check the front of the
A/C condenser (located in front of the radi -
ator), for an accumulation of dirt or insects. C
le
an with a gentle water spray from the front
of the radiator and through the condenser.
MAX A/C
MAX A/C sets the control for maximum cooling
p e

rformance.
Press and release to toggle between MAX A/C
a n

d the prior settings. The button illuminates
when MAX A/C is on.
In MAX A/C, the blower level and mode position
c a

n be adjusted to desired user settings.
Pressing other settings will cause the MAX A/C
operation to switch to the selected setting and
MAX A/C to exit.
Recirculation

In cold weather, use of Recirculation mode
may lead to excessive window fogging. The
R e

circulation feature may be unavailable (button
on the touchscreen greyed out) if conditions exist
that could create fogging on the inside of the
windshield.

On systems with Manual Climate Controls,
if equipped, the Recirculation mode is not
a l

lowed in Defrost mode to improve window
clearing operation. Recirculation is disabled
automatically if this mode is selected. Attempting to use Recirculation while in this
mode causes the LED in the control button to
blink and then turns off.
AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL
(ATC) — I
F EQUIPPED
Automatic Operation

1. Push the AUTO button on the faceplate, or
the AUTO button on the touchscreen on the
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)
Panel.

2. Next, adjust the temperature you would like t
he system to maintain by adjusting the
driver and passenger temperature control
buttons. Once the desired temperature is
displayed, the system achieves and
automatically maintains that comfort level.
3. W hen the system is set up for your comfort
l
evel, it is not necessary to change the
settings. You will experience the greatest
efficiency by simply allowing the system to
function automatically.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE 71
NOTE:
It is not necessary to move the temperature
settings for cold or hot vehicles. The system
automatically adjusts the temperature,
mode, and blower speed to provide comfort
as quickly as possible.

The temperature can be displayed in U.S. or
Metric units by selecting the US/Metric customer
programmable feature. Refer to the “Uconnect
Settings” in “Multimedia” for further information.
To provide you with maximum comfort in the
Automatic mode during cold start-ups, the blower
fan remains on low until the engine warms up.
The blower will increase in speed and transition
into Auto mode.

Manual Operation Override
This system offers a full complement of manual
override features. The AUTO symbol in the front
ATC display will be turned off when the system
is being used in the manual mode.
OPERATING TIPS
NOTE:
Refer to the chart at the end of this section for
s u

ggested control settings for various weather
conditions.
Summer Operation
The engine cooling system must be protected
with a high-quality antifreeze coolant to provide
proper corrosion protection and to protect
against engine overheating. OAT coolant
(conforming to MS.90032) is recommended.
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for proper coolant selection.
Winter Operation

To ensure the best possible heater and defroster
performance, make sure the engine cooling
system is functioning properly and the proper
amount, type, and concentration of coolant is
used. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in
“Technical Specifications” for proper coolant
selection. Use of the air Recirculation mode
during Winter months is not recommended,
because it may cause window fogging.

Vacation/Storage

Before you store your vehicle, or keep it out of
service (i.e., vacation) for two weeks or more, run
the air conditioning system at idle for about five
minutes, in fresh air with the blower setting on high.
This will ensure adequate system lubrication to
minimize the possibility of compressor damage
when the system is started again.

Window Fogging
Vehicle windows tend to fog on the inside in
mild, rainy, and/or humid weather. To clear the
windows, select Defrost or Mix mode and
increase the front blower speed. Do not use the
Recirculation mode without A/C for long
periods, as fogging may occur.
CAUTION!
Failure to follow these cautions can cause
damage to the heating elements:
Use care when washing the inside of the
rear window. Do not use abrasive window
cleaners on the interior surface of the
window. Use a soft cloth and a mild
washing solution, wiping parallel to the
heating elements. Labels can be peeled off
after soaking with warm water.
Do not use scrapers, sharp instruments, or
abrasive window cleaners on the interior
surface of the window.
Keep all objects a safe distance from the
window.
2

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 101

If the light remains on when the parking brake has
been disengaged, and the fluid level is at the full
mark on the master cylinder reservoir, it indicates a
possible brake hydraulic system malfunction or that
a problem with the Brake Booster has been
detected by the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) /
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. In this
case, the light will remain on until the condition has
been corrected. If the problem is related to the
brake booster, the ABS pump will run when applying
the brake, and a brake pedal pulsation may be felt
during each stop.

The dual brake system provides a reserve
br

aking capacity in the event of a failure to a
portion of the hydraulic system. A leak in either
half of the dual brake system is indicated by the
Brake Warning Light, which will turn on when
the brake fluid level in the master cylinder has
dropped below a specified level.
The light will remain on until the cause is
c o

rrected.
NOTE:
The light may flash momentarily during sharp
c o

rnering maneuvers, which change fluid level
conditions. The vehicle should have service
performed, and the brake fluid level checked. If brake failure is indicated, immediate repair is
n
e

cessary.
Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake
S y

stem (ABS) are also equipped with Electronic
Brake Force Distribution (EBD). In the event of
an EBD failure, the Brake Warning Light will turn
on along with the ABS Light. Immediate repair to
the ABS system is required.
Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be
c h

ecked by turning the ignition switch from the
OFF position to the ON/RUN position. The light
should illuminate for approximately two
seconds. The light should then turn off unless
the parking brake is applied or a brake fault is
detected. If the light does not illuminate, have
the light inspected by an authorized dealer.
The light also will turn on when the parking
b r

ake is applied with the ignition switch in the
ON/RUN position. NOTE:

This light shows only that the parking brake is
a p

plied. It does not show the degree of brake
application.
Vehicle Security Warning Light — If
Equipped
This light will flash at a fast rate for
approximately 15 seconds when the
v e

hicle security alarm is arming, and
then will flash slowly until the vehicle
is disarmed.
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning
Light
This warning light warns of an
overheated engine condition. If the
e n

gine coolant temperature is too
high, this indicator will illuminate and
a single chime will sound. If the temperature
reaches the upper limit, a continuous chime will
sound for four minutes or until the engine is
able to cool, whichever comes first.

If the light turns on while driving, safely pull over
a n

d stop the vehicle. If the Air Conditioning (A/C)
system is on, turn it off. Also, shift the
transmission into NEUTRAL and idle the vehicle.

WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is
dangerous. Part of the brake system may
have failed. It will take longer to stop the
vehicle. You could have a collision. Have the
vehicle checked immediately.
3

STARTING AND OPERATING 185
Automatic Transmission
The DRIVE range can be selected when towing.
However, if frequent shifting occurs while in
DRIVE, use the AutoStick shift control to
manually select a lower gear.
NOTE:
Using a lower gear while operating the vehicle
u n

der heavy loading conditions will improve
performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat build up.
This action will also provide better engine
braking.
If you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than
4 5

minutes of continuous operation, then
c h

ange the transmission fluid and filter as
specified for “police, taxi, fleet, or frequent
trailer towing”. Refer to the “Scheduled
Servicing” in “Servicing And Maintenance” for
the proper maintenance intervals.
NOTE:
Check the automatic transmission fluid level
b e

fore towing. If you notice fluid leakage or
transmission malfunction, see an authorized
dealer immediately for assistance.
Speed Control — If Equipped
Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy
loads.
When using the Speed Control, if you experi -
ence speed drops greater than 10 mph
( 1

6 km/h), disengage until you can get back
t o

cruising speed.
Use Speed Control in flat terrain and with
light loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
AutoStick
When using the AutoStick shift control, select
the highest gear that allows for adequate
performance and avoids frequent down -
shifts. For example, choose “4” if the desired
s p

eed can be maintained. Choose “3” or “2”
if needed to maintain the desired speed.
To prevent excess heat generation, avoid
continuous driving at high RPM. Reduce
vehicle speed as necessary to avoid
extended driving at high RPM. Return to a
higher gear or vehicle speed when grade and
road conditions allow.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission
overheating, take the following actions:
City Driving
In city traffic — while stopped, place the
tr

ansmission in NEUTRAL, but do not increase
engine idle speed.
Highway Driving
Reduce speed.
Temporarily turn off air conditioning.5

218 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Mileage or time passed (whichever comes first)
20,000
30,0 00
40,0 00
50,0 00
60,0 00
70,0 00
80,0 00
90,0 00
100,0 00
110,0 00
120,0 00
130,0 00
140,0 00
150,0 00
Or Years: 2345678910 1112131415
Or Kilometers:
32,000
48,0 00
64,0 00
80,0 00
96,0 00
112,0 00
128,0 00
144,0 00
160,0 00
176,0 00
192,0 00
208,0 00
224,0 00
240,0 00
Additional Inspections
Inspect the CV/Universal joints. XXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Inspect front suspension, tie rod ends, and replace if necessary. XXXXXXX
Inspect the brake linings, parking brake function. XXXXXXX
Additional Maintenance
Replace engine air filter. XXXXX
Replace air conditioning filter. XXXXXXX
Replace spark plugs.
1X XXXX
Flush and replace the engine coolant at 10 years or
150,000 miles (240,000 km) whichever comes first. X
X
Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter. X
Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter if using your
v e

hicle for any of the following: police, taxi, fleet, or frequent
trailer towing. X
X

224 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
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
d i

scarded, can present a problem to the
environment. Contact an authorized dealer,
service station or governmental agency for
advice on how and where used oil and oil filters
can be safely discarded in your area.
ENGINE OIL FILTER
The 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
ty
pe disposable oil filter. Use a filter of this type
for replacement. The quality of replacement
filters varies considerably. Only high quality
filters should be used to ensure most efficient
service. Mopar engine oil filters are high quality
oil filters and are recommended.
ENGINE AIR CLEANER FILTER
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in “Servicing
and Maintenance” for the proper maintenance
intervals.
NOTE:
Be sure to follow the “Severe Duty Conditions”
ma
intenance interval if applicable.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Selection
The quality of replacement engine air cleaner
f i

lters varies considerably. Only high quality
filters should be used to ensure most efficient
service. Mopar engine air cleaner filters are a
high quality filter and are recommended.
AIR CONDITIONER MAINTENANCE
For best possible performance, your air
conditioner should be checked and serviced by
an authorized dealer at the start of each warm
season. This service should include cleaning of
the condenser fins and a performance test.
Drive belt tension should also be checked at
this time.
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 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 personal injury.

WARNING!
Use only refrigerants and compressor lubri -
cants approved by the manufacturer for
y o

ur air conditioning system. Some unap -
proved refrigerants are flammable and can
e x

plode, injuring you. Other unapproved
refrigerants or lubricants can cause the
system to fail, requiring costly repairs.
Refer to Warranty Information Book, for
further warranty information.
The air conditioning system contains refrig -
erant under high pressure. To avoid risk of
p e

rsonal injury or damage to the system,
adding refrigerant or any repair requiring
lines to be disconnected should be done by
an experienced technician.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 225
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling —
R-1234yf

R-1234yf Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a
hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) that is endorsed by
the Environmental Protection Agency and
is an ozone-friendly substance with a low
g l

obal-warming potential. The manufacturer
recommends that air conditioning service be
performed by an authorized dealer using
recovery and recycling equipment.

NOTE:
Use only manufacturer approved A/C system
P A

G compressor oil, and refrigerants.
ACCESSORY DRIVE BELT INSPECTION
When inspecting accessory drive belts, small
cracks that run across the ribbed surface of the
belt from rib to rib, are considered normal.
These are not a reason to replace the 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.
Accessory Belt (Serpentine Belt)

Conditions that would require replacement:
Rib chunking (one or more ribs has sepa -
rated from belt body)
Rib or belt wear
Longitudinal belt cracking (cracks between
two ribs)
Belt slips
“Groove jumping" (belt does not maintain
correct position on pulley)
Belt broken (Identify and correct problem
before new belt is installed)
Noise (objectionable squeal, squeak, or
rumble is heard or felt while drive belt is in
operation)
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your air
conditioning system as the chemicals can
damage your air conditioning components.
Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.WARNING!
Do not attempt to inspect an accessory
drive belt with vehicle running.
When working near the radiator cooling fan,
disconnect 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 compe -
tent mechanic.
7

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 231
Coolant Level
The coolant bottle provides a quick visual
method for determining that the coolant level is
adequate. With the engine idling and warm to
normal operating temperature, the level of the
coolant in the bottle should be between the
“ADD” and “FULL” lines, shown on the bottle.
The radiator normally remains completely full,
so

there is no need to remove the radiator cap
unless checking for coolant freeze point or
replacing engine coolant (antifreeze). Advise
your service attendant of this. As long as the
engine operating temperature is satisfactory,
the coolant bottle need only be checked once a
month. When additional engine coolant
(antifreeze) is needed to maintain the proper
level, it should be added to the coolant bottle.
Do not overfill. See “Adding Coolant” in
“Servicing and Maintenance” for further
information.
Points To Remember
NOTE:
When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/
k i

lometers of operation, you may observe vapor
coming from the front of the engine compart -
ment. This is normally a result of moisture from
r a

in, snow, or high humidity accumulating on
the radiator and being vaporized when the ther -
mostat opens, allowing hot engine coolant (anti -
freeze) to enter the radiator.
If an examination of your engine compartment
s h

ows no evidence of radiator or hose leaks,
the vehicle may be safely driven. The vapor will
soon dissipate.
Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator
and in the coolant expansion bottle. If engine
coolant (antifreeze) needs to be added, the
contents of the coolant expansion bottle
must also be protected against freezing.
If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) addi-
tions are required, the cooling system should
b e

pressure tested for leaks.

Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concen -
tration at a minimum of 50% OAT coolant
( c

onforming to MS.90032) and distilled water
for proper corrosion protection of your engine
which contains aluminum components.

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 ther -
mostat. Other designs may result in unsatis -
factory engine coolant (antifreeze)
p e

rformance, poor gas mileage, and
increased emissions.
7