SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE163
Under normal operating conditions, the cata-
lytic converter will not require maintenance.
However, it is important to keep the engine
properly tuned to ensure proper catalyst opera -
tion and prevent possible catalyst damage.
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems can result in civil penalties being
assessed against you.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunc -
tioning engine operation, a scorching odor may
suggest severe and abnormal catalyst over -
heating. If this occurs, stop the vehicle, turn off
the engine and allow it to cool. Service,
including a tune-up to manufacturer's specifica-
tions, should be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter
damage:
Do not interrupt the ignition when the trans -
mission is in gear and the vehicle is in
motion.
Do not try to start the vehicle by pushing or
towing the vehicle.
Do not idle the engine with any ignition
components disconnected or removed, such
as when diagnostic testing, or for prolonged
periods during very rough idle or malfunc -
tioning operating conditions.
Cooling System
Coolant Checks
Check the engine coolant (antifreeze) protec-
tion every 12 months (before the onset of
freezing weather, where applicable). If the
engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty, the system
should be drained, flushed, and refilled with
fresh OAT coolant (conforming to MS-12106)
only by an authorized dealer. Check the front of
the A/C condenser for any accumulation of
bugs, leaves, etc. If dirty, clean by gently
spraying water from a garden hose vertically
down the face of the condenser.
Cooling System — Drain, Flush And Refill
NOTE:
Some vehicles require special tools to add
coolant properly. Failure to fill these systems
properly could lead to severe internal engine
damage. If any coolant is needed to be added to
the system please contact an authorized
dealer.
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or
contains visible sediment, have an authorized
dealer clean and flush with OAT coolant (anti -
freeze) (conforming to MS.90032).
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section
for the proper maintenance intervals.
WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot
engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from
your radiator. If you see or hear steam
coming from under the hood, do not open
the hood until the radiator has had time to
cool. Never open a cooling system pres -
sure cap when the radiator or coolant
bottle is hot.
Keep hands, tools, clothing, and jewelry
away from the radiator cooling fan when
the hood is raised. The fan starts automati -
cally and may start at any time, whether the
engine is running or not.
When working near the radiator cooling fan,
disconnect the fan motor lead or turn the
ignition to the OFF mode. The fan is
temperature controlled and can start at any
time the ignition is in the ON mode.
7
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166SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
If an examination of your engine compartment
shows 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
be pressure tested for leaks.
Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concen -
tration at a minimum of 50% OAT coolant
(conforming to MS.90032) and distilled
water for proper corrosion protection of your
engine which contains aluminum compo -
nents.
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)
performance, poor gas mileage, and
increased emissions.
Brake System
In order to ensure brake system performance,
all brake system components should be
inspected periodically. Refer to the “Mainte -
nance Plan” in this section for the proper main -
tenance intervals.
Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level of the master cylinder should be
checked when performing under the hood service or immediately if the brake system
warning lamp indicates system failure.
If necessary, add fluid to bring level within the
designated marks on the side of the reservoir of
the brake master cylinder. Be sure to clean the
top of the master cylinder area before removing
cap.
With disc brakes the fluid level can be expected
to fall as the brake linings wear. However, an
unexpected drop in fluid level may be caused by
a leak and a system check should be
conducted.
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure
and possibly 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.WARNING!
Use only manufacturer's recommended
brake fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants”
in “Technical Specifications” for further infor-
mation. 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 master cylinder reservoir.
20_VF_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 166
168SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Fluid Level Check
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 transmission 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 malfunc-
tion, visit your authorized dealer immediately to
have the transmission fluid level checked. Oper -
ating the vehicle with an improper fluid level can
cause severe transmission damage.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section
for the proper maintenance intervals.
In addition, change the fluid and filter if the fluid
becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if
the transmission is disassembled for any
reason.
RAISING THE VEHICLE
In the case where it is necessary to raise the
vehicle, go to an authorized dealer or service
station.
TIRES
Tire Safety Information
Tire safety information will cover aspects of the
following information: Tire Markings, Tire Identi -
fication Numbers, Tire Terminology and Defini -
tions, Tire Pressures, and Tire Loading.
Tire Markings
Tire Markings
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.
1 — US DOT Safety Standards Code (TIN)
2 — Size Designation
3 — Service Description
4 — Maximum Load
5 — Maximum Pressure
6 — Treadwear, Traction and Temperature Grades
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254
Electronic Stability Program(ESP) Indicator
................................. 48, 59Exterior...................................... 23, 91Hazard Warning Flasher..................... 123Headlights........................................ 23High Beam........................................ 24Illuminated Entry................................ 27Interior............................................. 25Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine)...... 51Park.......................................... 24, 53Passing............................................ 24Security Alarm................................... 49Service........................................... 123Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)............ 61Traction Control.................................. 59Turn Signals.......................... 23, 53, 91Warning Instrument Cluster Descriptions................... 48, 53
Loading Vehicle
............................. 112, 113Capacities....................................... 113Tires.............................................. 173
Locks
Automatic Door............................ 14, 15
Low Tire Pressure System
............................ 61
Lubrication, Body
................................... 161
Lug Nuts/Bolts
...................................... 191
M
Maintenance Free Battery
.......................... 157
Maintenance Schedule
............................. 152
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine)
.. 51, 55
Manual
Service........................................... 249
Methanol
............................................. 193
Mirrors
.................................................21Electric Remote.................................. 22Exterior Folding.................................. 22Heated............................................. 23Outside............................................21Rearview..........................................21
Modifications/Alterations
Vehicle...............................................8
Monitor, Tire Pressure System
.......................61
Mopar Parts
..........................................248
MP3 Control
......................................... 238
Multi-Function Control Lever
......................... 23
N
New Vehicle Break-In Period
......................... 93
O
Occupant Restraints
................................. 64
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel)
.................... 192
Oil Change Indicator
................................. 44Reset.............................................. 44
Oil Filter, Change
................................... 159
Oil Filter, Selection
................................. 159
Oil Pressure Light
..................................... 49
Oil, Engine
....................................158, 195Capacity........................................ 195Change Interval............................... 158Dipstick......................................... 157Disposal........................................ 159Filter...................................... 159, 195Filter Disposal................................. 159Identification Logo............................ 159Materials Added To.......................... 159Pressure Warning Light....................... 49Recommendation.....................158, 195Synthetic........................................ 159Viscosity................................. 159, 195
Onboard Diagnostic System
......................... 54
Operating Precautions
............................... 54
Operator Manual
Owner's Manual............................ 8, 249
Outside Rearview Mirrors
............................ 21
Overheating, Engine
................................ 147
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