2021 CHRYSLER 300 ECU

190 IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
If the vehicle is overheating, it will need to be
serviced by an authorized dealer.
In any of the following situations, you can reduce
th

e potential for overheating by taking the
appropriate action.
On the highways — slow down.
In city traffic — while stopped, place the trans -
mission in NEUTRAL, but do not increase the
e n
gine idle speed while preventing vehicle
motion with the brakes.
NOTE:
There are steps that you can take to slow down an
i m
pending overheat condition:
If your Air Conditioner (A/C) is on, turn it off. The
A/C system adds heat to the engine cooling
system and turning the A/C off can help remove
this heat.
You can also turn the temperature control to
maximum heat, the mode control to floor and
the blower control to high. This allows the heater
core to act as a supplement to the radiator and
aids in removing heat from the engine cooling
system.
MANUAL PARK RELEASE
To move the vehicle in cases where the
transmission will not shift out of PARK (such as a
depleted battery), a Manual Park Release is
available.
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 try to open a cooling
system pressure cap when the radiator or coolant
bottle is hot.

CAUTION!

Driving with a hot cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads HOT
(H), pull over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle
with the air conditioner turned off until the pointer
drops back into the normal range. If the pointer
remains on HOT (H), and you hear continuous
chimes, turn the engine off immediately and call
for service.

WARNING!
Always secure your vehicle by fully applying the
parking brake before activating the Manual Park
Release. In addition, you should be seated in the
driver's seat with your foot firmly on the brake
pedal when activating the Manual Park Release.
Activating the Manual Park Release will allow
your vehicle to roll away if it is not secured by the
parking brake, or by proper connection to a tow
vehicle. Activating the Manual Park Release on
an unsecured vehicle could lead to serious
injury or death for those in or around the vehicle.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY 191
Follow these steps to use the Manual Park
Release:

1. Firmly apply the parking brake.

2

. R emove the console storage bin to access the
M
anual Park Release lever.

Manual Park Release Cover

3. U sing a small screwdriver or similar tool, fish
t
he tether strap up through the opening in the
console base.
4. P ress and maintain firm pressure on the brake
p
edal. 5. I
nsert the screwdriver into the slot in the
c
enter of the lever, and disengage the lever
locking tab by pushing it to the right.

Engaging The Lever

6. While holding the locking tab in the d
isengaged position, pull the tether strap to
rotate the lever up and rearward, until it locks
in place in the vertical position. The vehicle is
now out of PARK and can be moved. Release
the parking brake only when the vehicle is
securely connected to a tow vehicle. To Reset The Manual Park Release:

1. P
ush the latch (at the base of the lever, on the
re
ar side) rearward (away from the lever) to
unlatch the lever.

Disengaging The Lever

2. Rotate the Manual Park Release lever forward a
nd down, to its original position, until the
locking tab snaps into place to secure the
lever.
3. Pull up gently on the tether strap to confirm t
hat the lever is locked in its stowed position.
4. Tuck the tether strap into the base of the c
onsole. Reinstall the console storage bin.
When the lever is in the release position the access
cov
er cannot be reinstalled.
7

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY 193
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE
This section describes procedures for towing a disabled vehicle using a commercial towing service.
Proper towing or lifting equipment is required to prevent damage to your vehicle. Use only tow bars and other equipment designed for this purpose, following
eq

uipment manufacturer’s instructions. Use of safety chains is mandatory. Attach a tow bar or other towing device to main structural members of the vehicle,
not to bumpers or associated brackets. State and local laws regarding vehicles under tow must be observed.
If you must use the accessories (wipers, defrosters, etc.) while being towed, the ignition must be in the ON/RUN mode, not the ACC mode.
If the key fob is unavailable, or the vehicle's battery is discharged, instructions on shifting the transmission out of PARK for towing
Ú page 190.
Towing Condition
Wheels OFF The Ground RWD MODELS AWD MODELS
Flat Tow NONEIf transmission is operable:

Transmission in NEUTRAL
30 mph (48 km/h) max speed
30 miles (48 km) max distance NOT ALLOWED
Wheel Lift Or Dolly Tow Front
NOT RECOMMENDED
(b

ut, if used, same limitations as above) NOT ALLOWED
Rear NOT RECOMMENDED NOT RECOMMENDED, but, if used:
Ignition in ON/RUN mode
Transmission in
NEUTRAL (NOT in PARK)
Flatbed ALL BEST METHOD BEST METHOD
CAUTION!
Do not use sling type equipment when towing. Vehicle damage may occur.

When securing the vehicle to a flat bed truck, do not attach to front or rear suspension components. Damage to your vehicle may result from improper towing.

FCA US LLC does not recommend towing this vehicle using a tow dolly. Vehicle damage may occur.
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208 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
4. Slide the wiper blade onto the arm until motion stops, then fold down the locking tab to
secure.
NOTE:
The locking tab will not snap into place until the
b l
ade is properly positioned on the wiper arm hook.
5. Gently lower the wiper blade onto the glass.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry
into the vehicle body is a properly maintained
engine exhaust system.
If you notice a change in the sound of the exhaust
s y

stem; or if the exhaust fumes can be detected
inside the vehicle; or when the underside 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 mispositioned 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. Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic
c
on
verter will not require maintenance. However, it
is important to keep the engine properly tuned to
ensure proper catalyst operation and prevent
possible catalyst damage.
NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions control
s y
stems can result in civil penalties being
assessed against you.
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain
carbon monoxide (CO), which is colorless and
odorless. Breathing it can make you uncon -
scious and can eventually poison you. To
a v

oid breathing CO Ú page 178.
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you
park over materials that can burn. Such mate -
rials might be grass or leaves coming into
c on

tact 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 seriously
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 performance, have your
vehicle serviced promptly. Continued opera -
tion of your vehicle with a severe malfunction
c ou

ld cause the converter to overheat,
resulting in possible damage to the converter
and vehicle.
CAUTION!

212 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
BRAKE SYSTEM
In order to ensure brake system performance, all
brake system components should be inspected
periodically
Ú page 195.
Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
Check the fluid level in the master cylinder
immediately if the brake system warning light
indicates system failure.
Check the fluid level in the master cylinder when
pe

rforming underhood services.
Clean the top of the master cylinder area before
re
moving the cap. Add fluid to bring the level up to
the top of the “FULL” mark on the side of the
master cylinder reservoir.
Overfilling of fluid is not recommended because it
ma
y cause leaking in the system.
Add enough fluid to bring the level up to the
re
quirements described on the brake fluid reservoir. With disc brakes, fluid level can be
expected to fall as the brake pads wear. However,
low fluid level may be caused by a leak and a
checkup may be needed.
Use only brake fluid that has been recommended
b
y

the manufacturer, and has been kept in a tightly
closed container to avoid contamination from
foreign matter or moisture
Ú page 250.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against
using any special additives in the transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an
engineered product and its performance may be
impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore, do
not add any fluid additives to the transmission.
Avoid using transmission sealers as they may
adversely affect seals.
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 Ú page 250. Using the wrong type of
brake fluid can severely damage your brake
s y
stem 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.
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 reservoir 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.
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 contam -
inate the brake fluid. Brake seal components
c ou
ld be damaged, causing partial or
complete brake failure. This could result in a
collision.
WARNING!

255
INDEX
A
About Your Brakes.........................................245Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
(Cruise Control)................................................94Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)...............210Adding Fuel....................................................111Adding Washing Fluid....................................201Additives, Fuel...............................................246Adjust Forward.......................................................29Rearward.....................................................29Air Bag...........................................................159Advance Front Air Bag...............................159Air Bag Operation......................................160Air Bag Warning Light................................158Driver Knee Air Bag...................................161Enhanced Accident Response.........164, 194Event Data Recorder (EDR).......................194Front Air Bag.............................................159If Deployment Occurs................................164Knee Impact Bolsters................................161Maintaining Your Air Bag System..............165Maintenance.............................................165Redundant Air Bag Warning Light.............159Side Air Bags.............................................161Transporting Pets......................................176
Air Bag Light..................................72, 158, 176
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter)..203
Air Conditioner Maintenance........................204Air Conditioner Refrigerant...........................204Air Conditioner System...........................47, 204Air Conditioning Filter..............................50, 204Air Conditioning, Operating Tips.......................50Air Filter........................................................203Air PressureTires.........................................................232AlarmArm The System...................................18, 19Rearm The System......................................19Security Alarm......................................18, 74Alarm SystemSecurity Alarm.............................................18All Wheel DriveTowing......................................................194All Wheel Drive (AWD)...................................213Alterations/ModificationsVehicle...........................................................8Antifreeze (Engine Coolant).................210, 248Disposal...................................................211Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)......................137Anti-Lock Warning Light...................................74
Arming SystemSecurity Alarm.............................................18Assist, Hill Start.............................................141Audio Systems (Radio)..................................121Auto Down Power Windows..............................56Automatic Door Locks......................................22Automatic Headlights.......................................41Automatic High Beams.....................................41Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)..............49Automatic Transmission...................................87Adding Fluid.....................................213, 250Fluid And Filter Change.............................213Fluid Change.............................................213Fluid Level Check.............................212, 213Fluid Type........................................213, 250Special Additives......................................212
Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode..22, 90
AutoPark..........................................................82AutostickOperation.....................................................90AUX Cord..........................................................53Auxiliary Electrical Outlet (Power Outlet)..........54AWDTowing......................................................194Axle Fluid.......................................................250Axle Lubrication............................................250
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256
B
Back-Up.........................................................110Battery....................................................73, 201Charging System Light.................................73Keyless Key Fob Replacement....................13Location....................................................201Belts, Seat.....................................................176Beverage Holder Cooled (Cupholder)..............53Beverage Holder Heated (Cupholder)..............53Body Mechanism Lubrication........................206B-Pillar Location.............................................229Brake Assist System......................................138Brake Control System....................................138Brake Fluid..........................................212, 250Brake System......................................212, 245Fluid Check.....................................212, 250Master Cylinder.........................................212Parking........................................................84Warning Light.....................................72, 245Brake/Transmission Interlock.........................87Break-In Recommendations, New Vehicle.......84Brightness, Interior Lights................................44Bulb Replacement.........................................221Bulbs, Light..........................................178, 221
C
Camera, Rear................................................110Capacities, Fluid............................................248
Caps, Filler
Oil (Engine)...............................................199Radiator (Coolant Pressure).....................210Car Washes...................................................242Carbon Monoxide Warning............................178CargoVehicle Loading........................................113Cargo Area Cover.............................................61Cargo Compartment........................................61Cellular Phone..............................................136Certification Label.........................................113Chains, Tire...................................................239Chart, Tire Sizing...........................................226Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator
Light)................................................................79Checking Your Vehicle For Safety.................176Checks, Safety..............................................176Child Restraint..............................................166Child Restraints Booster Seats...........................................168Child Seat Installation..............................174How To Stow An unused ALR Seat Belt....172Infant And Child Restraints.......................167Lower Anchors And Tethers For Children..169Older Children And Child Restraints.........167Seating Positions......................................169Child Safety Locks...........................................23Clean Air Gasoline.........................................246
CleaningWheels......................................................238Climate Control................................................47Automatic....................................................47Coin Holder......................................................52Cold Weather Operation...................................83Compact Spare Tire......................................236ConsoleFloor............................................................52Contract, Service...........................................252Cooling Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap)............210Cooling System.............................................209Adding Coolant (Antifreeze)......................210Coolant Capacity.......................................248Coolant Level...................................209, 211Disposal Of Used Coolant.........................211Drain, Flush, And Refill.............................209Inspection.................................................211Points To Remember................................211Pressure Cap............................................210Radiator Cap.............................................210Selection Of Coolant
(Antifreeze).........................210, 248, 249Corrosion Protection.....................................242Cruise Control (Speed Control)..................92, 94Cruise Light...............................................77, 78Customer Assistance....................................251Cybersecurity................................................121

259
Keyless Enter 'n Go™................................20, 81Enter The Trunk...........................................13Passive Entry...............................................20Passive Entry Programming.........................20Keys.................................................................12Replacement...............................................14
L
Lane Change And Turn Signals........................43Lane Change Assist.........................................43LaneSense....................................................108Lap/Shoulder Belts.......................................153Latches..........................................................178Hood...........................................................59Lead Free Gasoline........................................246Leaks, Fluid...................................................178Life Of Tires...................................................234Light Bulbs...........................................178, 221Lights.............................................................178Air Bag.......................................72, 158, 176Automatic Headlights..................................41Brake Assist Warning................................140Brake Warning...................................72, 245Bulb Replacement.....................................221Cruise...................................................77, 78Daytime Running.........................................41Dimmer Switch, Headlight....................40, 41Engine Temperature Warning......................73Exterior......................................................178
Fog..............................................................42Hazard Warning Flasher...........................179Headlight Switch..........................................40Headlights...................................40, 42, 222Headlights On With Wipers..........................42High Beam...................................................41High Beam/Low Beam Select......................41Instrument Cluster.......................................40Intensity Control..........................................44Interior.........................................................43License.....................................................224Lights On Reminder.....................................42Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine)..........75Map.............................................................43Park......................................................41, 78Passing........................................................41Reading.......................................................43Seat Belt Reminder.....................................73Security Alarm.............................................74Service.....................................................221Traction Control........................................140Turn Signals.........................40, 43, 78, 178Vanity Mirror................................................34Warning Instrument Cluster
Descriptions.....................................73, 78Load Leveling System......................................63Load Shed Battery Saver On............................70Load Shed Electrical Load Reduction..............70
Load Shed Intelligent Battery Sensor...............70Loading Vehicle.............................................113Capacities.................................................113Tires..........................................................229Locks Auto Unlock.................................................22Automatic Door............................................22Child Protection...........................................23Power Door..................................................20Low Tire Pressure System.............................148Lubrication, Body..........................................206Lug Nuts........................................................245
M
Maintenance Free Battery............................201Maintenance Schedule........................195, 196Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine).....75ManualPark Release............................................190Service......................................................253Media Hub.......................................................53Memory Feature (Memory Seats).....................27Memory Seat....................................................27Memory Seats And Radio.................................27Methanol.......................................................247Mirrors.............................................................34Electric Powered..........................................35Electric Remote...........................................35Heated.........................................................36
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