SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE157
Checking Oil Level — Gas Engine
To ensure proper lubrication of your vehicle's
engine, the engine oil must be maintained at
the correct level. Check the oil level at regular
intervals, such as every fuel stop. The best time
to check the engine oil level is about five
minutes after a fully warmed up engine is shut
off.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level
ground will improve the accuracy of the oil level
readings. Always maintain the oil level within
the SAFE zone on the dipstick. Adding one quart
of oil when the reading is at the bottom of the
SAFE zone will result in a reading at the top of
the safe zone on these engines.
Adding Washer Fluid
The fluid reservoir is located in the engine
compartment and should be checked at regular
intervals. Fill the reservoir with windshield
washer solvent (not radiator antifreeze) 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 illumi -
nates.
After the engine has warmed, operate the
defroster for a few minutes to reduce the possi -
bility of smearing or freezing the fluid on the
cold windshield. Mopar All Weather Windshield
Washer Solution or equivalent, used with water
as directed on the container, aids cleaning
action, reduces the freezing point to avoid line
clogging, and is not harmful to paint or trim.
Maintenance-Free Battery
Your vehicle is equipped with a mainte-
nance-free battery. You will never have to add
water, nor is periodic maintenance required.
CAUTION!
Overfilling or underfilling will cause oil
aeration or loss of oil pressure. This could
damage your engine.
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.
WARNING!
Battery fluid is a corrosive acid solution and
can burn or even blind you. Do not allow
battery fluid to contact your eyes, skin, or
clothing. Do not lean over a battery when
attaching clamps. If acid splashes in eyes
or on skin, flush the area immediately with
large amounts of water. Refer to “Jump
Starting Procedure” in “In Case Of Emer -
gency” for further information.
Battery gas is flammable and explosive.
Keep flame or sparks away from the
battery. Do not use a booster battery or any
other booster source with an output greater
than 12 Volts. Do not allow cable clamps to
touch each other.
Battery posts, terminals, and related acces -
sories contain lead and lead compounds.
Wash hands after handling.
7
20_VF_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 157
162SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
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 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
depending on geographical area and frequency
of use. Poor performance 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.
Exhaust System
The 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
exhaust system and adjacent body areas for
broken, damaged, deteriorated, or misposi -
tioned parts. Open seams or loose connections
could permit exhaust fumes to seep into the
passenger 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” in “Safety” for further informa -
tion.
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
vehicle with a severe malfunction could
cause the converter to overheat, resulting
in possible damage to the converter and
vehicle.
WARNING!
(Continued)
20_VF_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 162
176SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Tires — General Information
Tire Pressure
Proper tire inflation pressure is essential to the
safe and satisfactory operation of your vehicle.
Four primary areas are affected by improper tire
pressure:
Safety
Fuel Economy
Tread Wear
Ride Comfort And Vehicle Stability Safety
Both underinflation and overinflation affect the
stability of the vehicle and can produce a feeling
of sluggish response or over responsiveness in
the steering.
NOTE:
Unequal tire pressures from side to side may
cause erratic and unpredictable steering
response.
Unequal tire pressure from side to side may
cause the vehicle to drift left or right.
Fuel Economy
Underinflated tires will increase tire rolling
resistance resulting in higher fuel consumption.
Tread Wear
Improper cold tire inflation pressures can cause
abnormal wear patterns and reduced tread life,
resulting in the need for earlier tire replace -
ment.
Ride Comfort And Vehicle Stability
Proper tire inflation contributes to a comfort -
able ride. Over-inflation produces a jarring and
uncomfortable ride.
WARNING!
Overloading of your tires is dangerous.
Overloading can cause tire failure, affect
vehicle handling, and increase your stopping
distance. Use tires of the recommended load
capacity for your vehicle. Never overload
them.WARNING!
Improperly inflated tires are dangerous and
can cause collisions.
Underinflation increases tire flexing and
can result in overheating and tire failure.
Overinflation reduces a tire's ability to
cushion shock. Objects on the road and
chuckholes can cause damage that result
in tire failure.
Overinflated or underinflated tires can
affect vehicle handling and can fail
suddenly, resulting in loss of vehicle
control.
Unequal tire pressures can cause steering
problems. You could lose control of your
vehicle.
Unequal tire pressures from one side of the
vehicle to the other can cause the vehicle
to drift to the right or left.
Always drive with each tire inflated to the
recommended cold tire inflation pressure.
20_VF_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 176
192TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Inspect the wheel mounting surface prior to
mounting the tire and remove any corrosion or
loose particles.
Wheel Mounting Surface
Tighten the lug nuts/bolts in a star pattern until
each nut/bolt has been tightened twice. Ensure
that the socket is fully engaged on the lug nut/
bolt (do not insert it halfway).
Torque Patterns After 25 miles (40 km), check the lug nut/bolt
torque to be sure that all the lug nuts/bolts are
properly seated against the wheel.
FUEL REQUIREMENTS
3.6L Engine
This engine is designed to meet all
emissions regulations and provide
optimum fuel economy and perfor-
mance when using high quality
unleaded “Regular” gasoline having a posted
octane number of 87 as specified by the (R+M)/
2 method. The use of higher octane “Premium”
gasoline is not required, as it will not provide
any benefit over “Regular” gasoline in these
engines. While operating on gasoline with an octane
number of 87, hearing a light knocking sound
from the engine is not a cause for concern.
However, if the engine is heard making a heavy
knocking sound, see your dealer immediately.
Use of gasoline with an octane number lower
than 87 can cause engine failure and may void
or not be covered by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
Poor quality gasoline can cause problems such
as hard starting, stalling, and hesitations. If you
experience these symptoms, try another brand
of gasoline before considering service for the
vehicle.Reformulated Gasoline
Many areas of the country require the use of
cleaner burning gasoline referred to as “Refor
-
mulated Gasoline”. Reformulated gasoline
contains oxygenates and are specifically
blended to reduce vehicle emissions and
improve air quality.
The use of reformulated gasoline is recom -
mended. Properly blended reformulated
gasoline will provide improved performance
and durability of engine and fuel system
components.
WARNING!
To avoid the risk of forcing the vehicle off the
jack, do not tighten the lug nuts/bolts fully
until the vehicle has been lowered. Failure to
follow this warning may result in personal
injury.
20_VF_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 192
194TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
(Continued)
MMT In Gasoline
Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl
(MMT) is a manganese-containing metallic addi -
tive that is blended into some gasoline to
increase octane. Gasoline blended with MMT
provides no performance advantage beyond
gasoline of the same octane number without
MMT. Gasoline blended with MMT reduces
spark plug life and reduces emissions system
performance in some vehicles. The manufac -
turer recommends that gasoline without MMT
be used in your vehicle. The MMT content of
gasoline may not be indicated on the gasoline
pump; therefore, you should ask your gasoline
retailer whether the gasoline contains MMT.
MMT is prohibited in Federal and California
reformulated gasoline.
Fuel System Cautions
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with the emissions
control system can result in civil penalties being
assessed against you.
Carbon Monoxide Warnings
CAUTION!
Follow these guidelines to maintain your
vehicle’s performance:
The use of leaded gasoline is prohibited by
Federal law. Using leaded gasoline can
impair engine performance and damage
the emissions control system.
An out-of-tune engine or certain fuel or igni -
tion malfunctions can cause the catalytic
converter to overheat. If you notice a
pungent burning odor or some light smoke,
your engine may be out of tune or malfunc -
tioning and may require immediate service.
Contact an authorized dealer for service
assistance.
The use of fuel additives, which are now
being sold as octane enhancers, is not
recommended. Most of these products
contain high concentrations of methanol.
Fuel system damage or vehicle perfor -
mance problems resulting from the use of
such fuels or additives is not the responsi -
bility of the manufacturer and may void or
not be covered under the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
(Continued)
WARNING!
Carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaust gases is
deadly. Follow the precautions below to
prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
Do not inhale exhaust gases. They contain
carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless
gas, which can kill. Never run the engine in
a closed area, such as a garage, and never
sit in a parked vehicle with the engine
running for an extended period. If the
vehicle is stopped in an open area with the
engine running for more than a short
period, adjust the ventilation system to
force fresh, outside air into the vehicle.
Guard against carbon monoxide with
proper maintenance. Have the exhaust
system inspected every time the vehicle is
raised. Have any abnormal conditions
repaired promptly. Until repaired, drive with
all side windows fully open.
20_VF_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 194
250
INDEX
A
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)
............... 164
Adding Washing Fluid
............................... 157
Additives, Fuel
....................................... 193
Air Bag
................................................. 74Air Bag Operation............................... 75Air Bag Warning Light.......................... 73Enhanced Accident Response.............. 151Event Data Recorder (EDR)................. 151If Deployment Occurs.......................... 80Maintaining Your Air Bag System............ 81Maintenance..................................... 81Side Air Bags..................................... 76Transporting Pets............................... 89
Air Bag Light
............................... 47, 73, 90
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter)
... 159
Air Conditioner Maintenance
...................... 160
Air Conditioner Refrigerant
......................... 160
Air Conditioner System
............................. 160
Air Conditioning Filter
......................... 34, 160
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips
............... 33, 34
Air Filter
.............................................. 159
Air Pressure
Tires.............................................. 177
Alarm
Security Alarm............................. 13, 49
Alarm System
Security Alarm.................................... 13
Alterations/Modifications
Vehicle...............................................8
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)
................ 164, 195Disposal......................................... 165
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
.......................56
Anti-Lock Warning Light
.............................. 52
Assist, Hill Start
........................................ 60
Auto Down Power Windows
.......................... 35
Auto Up Power Windows
.............................. 35
Automatic Door Locks
................................15
Automatic Transmission
...................... 95, 168Adding Fluid.................................... 168Fluid And Filter Change...................... 168Fluid Change................................... 168Fluid Level Check...................... 167, 168Fluid Type............................... 167, 197Special Additives.............................. 167
AUX Cord
............................................. 238
Auxiliary Driving Systems
............................. 61
B
Battery
......................................... 47, 157Charging System Light......................... 47Keyless Key Fob Replacement............... 10
Belts, Seat
............................................. 90
Body Builders Guide
................................... 8
Body Mechanism Lubrication
..................... 161
B-Pillar Location
.................................... 173
Brake Assist System
................................. 57
Brake Control System, Electronic
................... 57
Brake Fluid
...................................166, 197
Brake System
................................166, 191Anti-Lock (ABS).................................. 56Fluid Check.................................... 166Master Cylinder............................... 166Parking............................................ 94Warning Light.................................... 48
Brake, Parking
........................................ 94
Brake/Transmission Interlock
...................... 96
Bulb Replacement
.................................. 123
Bulbs, Light
....................................91, 123
C
Camera, Rear
....................................... 109
Capacities, Fluid
.................................... 195
Caps, Filler
Fuel.............................................. 111Oil (Engine)..................................... 156Power Steering................................ 103Radiator (Coolant Pressure)................ 165
Car Washes
......................................... 187
Carbon Monoxide Warning
...................89, 194
20_VF_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 250
252
Engine
................................................ 156Air Cleaner...................................... 159Block Heater..................................... 93Break-In Recommendations.................. 93Compartment.................................. 156Compartment Identification................ 156Coolant (Antifreeze)................... 163, 195Cooling........................................... 163Exhaust Gas Caution................... 89, 194Fails To Start..................................... 92Flooded, Starting................................ 92Fuel Requirements................... 192, 195Jump Starting.................................. 145Oil......................................... 158, 195Oil Filler Cap.................................... 156Oil Filter......................................... 159Oil Selection............................ 158, 195Oil Synthetic.................................... 159Overheating.................................... 147Starting............................................ 92
Engine Oil Viscosity
................................. 159
Engine Oil Viscosity Chart
.......................... 159
Enhanced Accident Response Feature
........... 151
Entry System, Illuminated
............................ 27
Ethanol
............................................... 193
Exhaust Gas Cautions
........................ 89, 194
Exhaust System
............................... 89, 162
Exterior Lights
................................... 23, 91
F
Filters
Air Cleaner
...................................... 159Air Conditioning.......................... 34, 160Engine Oil............................... 159, 195Engine Oil Disposal........................... 159
Flashers
Hazard Warning................................ 123Turn Signals................................ 53, 91
Flat Tire Changing
........................... 168, 181
Flat Tire Stowage
............................ 168, 181
Flooded Engine Starting
.............................. 92
Fluid Capacities
.....................................195
Fluid Leaks
............................................. 91
Fluid Level Checks
Automatic Transmission..................... 168Brake............................................. 166Cooling System................................ 163Power Steering................................. 103
Fluids And Lubricants
............................... 195
Fog Lights
.............................................. 25
Fold-Flat Seats
........................................ 15
Four-Way Hazard Flasher
........................... 123
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle
............................ 149
Fuel
.................................................. 192Additives........................................ 193Clean Air........................................ 192Ethanol.......................................... 193Filler Cap (Gas Cap).......................... 111Gasoline........................................ 192Materials Added.............................. 193Methanol....................................... 193Octane Rating..........................192, 195Requirements..........................192, 195Tank Capacity................................. 195
Fuses
................................................ 128
G
Gas Cap (Fuel Filler Cap)
.......................... 111
Gasoline, Clean Air
................................. 192
Gasoline, Reformulated
........................... 192
Gear Ranges
.......................................... 97
Gear Selector Override
............................. 148
Glass Cleaning
...................................... 190
Gross Axle Weight Rating
...................112, 113
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
...............112, 113
Guide
Body Builders...................................... 8
GVWR
................................................ 112
20_VF_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 252
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
20_VF_OM_EN_US_t.book Page 254