2021 DODGE CHALLENGER check transmission fluid

6
JUMP STARTING .................................................. 238 Preparations For Jump Start......................... 239Jump Starting Procedure .............................. 240
IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS ........................... 241
MANUAL PARK RELEASE — 8 – SPEED
TRANSMISSION .................................................. 241
FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE ............................... 243
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE .......................... 244 Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Models.................. 245
ENHANCED ACCIDENT RESPONSE SYSTEM
(EARS) .................................................................. 245
EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR) ......................... 245
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING .................................... 246
3.6L And 5.7L Engines ................................. 246
ENGINE COMPARTMENT .................................... 251
3.6L Engine ................................................... 2515.7L Engine ................................................... 252Checking Oil Level ......................................... 253
Adding Washer Fluid ..................................... 253
Maintenance-Free Battery ............................ 254
Pressure Washing ......................................... 254 VEHICLE MAINTENANCE..................................... 254
Engine Oil ...................................................... 255
Engine Oil Filter ............................................. 256Engine Air Cleaner Filter .............................. 256Air Conditioner Maintenance ....................... 257
Accessory Drive Belt Inspection ................... 259Body Lubrication ........................................... 260Windshield Wiper Blades.............................. 260Exhaust System ............................................. 261Cooling System .............................................. 262
Brake System ............................................... 265
Clutch Hydraulic System — Manual
Transmission (If Equipped)........................... 266Manual Transmission — If Equipped............ 266
Automatic Transmission — If Equipped ....... 266
All Wheel Drive (AWD) — If Equipped .......... 267
Rear Axle ........................................................ 267Fuses.............................................................. 267
Bulb Replacement ........................................ 276 TIRES ..................................................................... 279
Tire Safety Information ................................ 279Tires — General Information ........................ 288Tire Types....................................................... 291Spare Tires — If Equipped ............................ 292
Wheel And Wheel Trim Care ........................ 294Snow Traction Devices.................................. 295Tire Rotation Recommendations ................. 296
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM
TIRE QUALITY GRADES ...................................... 296
Treadwear...................................................... 297
Traction Grades ............................................. 297Temperature Grades..................................... 297
VEHICLE STORAGE .............................................. 298
BODYWORK .......................................................... 298 Protection From Atmospheric Agents .......... 298
Body And Underbody Maintenance ............. 298
Preserving The Bodywork ............................. 298
INTERIORS ........................................................... 299
Seats And Fabric Parts ................................. 299
Plastic And Coated Parts .............................. 299
Leather Surfaces........................................... 300
Glass Surfaces ............................................. 300

21_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 6

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL73
The ESC OFF Indicator Light and the ESC Indi-
cator Light come on momentarily each time the
ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/
RUN position.
The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking
sounds when it is active. This is normal; the
sounds will stop when ESC becomes inactive.
This light will come on when the vehicle is in an
ESC event.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF
Warning Light — If Equipped

This warning light indicates the ESC is off.

Each time the ignition is turned to ON/
RUN or ACC/ON/RUN, the ESC system will
be on, even if it was turned off previously.

Low Fuel Warning Light
When the fuel level reaches
approximately 2 gal (7.5 L), this light will
turn on and a chime will sound. The light
will remain on until fuel is added.
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when
the windshield washer fluid is low.
Loose Fuel Filler Cap Warning Light —
If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when
the fuel filler cap is loose. Properly close
the filler cap to disengage the light. If the
light does not turn off, please see an
authorized dealer.
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator
Warning Light (MIL)
The Engine Check/Malfunction
Indicator Light (MIL) is a part of an
Onboard Diagnostic System called OBD
II that monitors engine and automatic
transmission control systems. This warning light
will illuminate when the ignition is in the ON/RUN
position before engine start. If the bulb does not
come on when turning the ignition switch from OFF
to ON/RUN, have the condition checked promptly.
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas
cap, poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate the light
after engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if
the light stays on through several typical driving
styles. In most situations, the vehicle will drive
normally and will not require towing. When the engine is running, the MIL may flash to
alert serious conditions that could lead to
immediate loss of power or severe catalytic
converter damage. The vehicle should be serviced
by an authorized dealer as soon as possible if this
occurs.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as
referenced above, can reach higher
temperatures than in normal operating
conditions. This can cause a fire if you drive
slowly or park over flammable substances such
as dry plants, wood, cardboard, etc. This could
result in death or serious injury to the driver,
occupants or others.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) on could cause damage to the
vehicle control system. It also could affect fuel
economy and driveability. If the MIL is flashing,
severe catalytic converter damage and power
loss will soon occur. Immediate service is
required.
3

21_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 73

82STARTING AND OPERATING
ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS —
3.6L & 5.7L
A long break-in period is not required for the
drivetrain (engine, transmission, clutch, and rear
axle) in your new vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles
(500 km). After the initial 60 miles (100 km),
speeds up to 50 or 55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are
desirable.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within
the limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good
break-in. However, wide-open throttle acceleration
in low gear can be detrimental and should be
avoided.
The engine oil, transmission fluid, and axle
lubricant installed at the factory are high-quality
and energy-conserving. Oil, fluid, and lubricant
changes should be consistent with anticipated
climate and conditions under which vehicle
operations will occur. For the recommended
viscosity and quality grades Ú page 306.
NOTE:A new engine may consume some oil during its first
few thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This
should be considered a normal part of the break-in
and not interpreted as an indication of difficulty.
Please check your oil level with the engine oil indi -
cator often during the break in period. Add oil as
required.
PARKING BRAKE
Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the
parking brake is fully applied and place the gear
selector in the PARK or REVERSE (manual
transmission only) position.
When the parking brake is applied and the ignition
switch is in the ON/RUN position, the Brake
Warning Light in the instrument cluster will
illuminate.
NOTE:
When the parking brake is applied and the
transmission is placed in gear, the Brake
Warning Light will flash. If vehicle speed is
detected, a chime will sound to alert the driver.
Fully release the parking brake before
attempting to move the vehicle.
This light only shows that the parking brake is
applied. It does not show the degree of brake
application. When parking on a hill, it is important to turn the
front wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade
and away from the curb on an uphill grade. For
vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission,
apply the parking brake before placing the gear
selector in PARK, otherwise the load on the
transmission locking mechanism may make it
difficult to move the gear selector out of PARK. The
parking brake should always be applied whenever
the driver is not in the vehicle.
Manual Transmission — If Equipped
The foot operated parking brake is positioned
below the lower left corner of the instrument panel.
To release the parking brake, pull the parking
brake release handle.

Parking Brake Release

CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral
Oil in the engine or damage may result.

21_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 82

118STARTING AND OPERATING
(Continued)
Replace tires when tread wear indicators first
become visible.
Keep tires properly inflated.
Maintain sufficient distance between your
vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to avoid a
collision in a sudden stop.
Your vehicle may be equipped with a Limited Slip
Differential (LSD) that reduces, but does not
eliminate, the amount of wheel slip across a given
axle for improved handling.
DRIVING THROUGH WATER
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to
ensure safety and prevent damage to your vehicle.
Flowing/Rising Water Shallow Standing Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through
shallow standing water, consider the following
Warnings and Cautions before doing so.
WARNING!
Do not drive on or across a road or path where
water is flowing and/or rising (as in storm
run-off). Flowing water can wear away the road
or path's surface and cause your vehicle to sink
into deeper water. Furthermore, flowing and/or
rising water can carry your vehicle away swiftly.
Failure to follow this warning may result in
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.
WARNING!
Driving through standing water limits your
vehicle’s traction capabilities. Do not exceed
5 mph (8 km/h) when driving through
standing water.
Driving through standing water limits your
vehicle’s braking capabilities, which increases
stopping distances. Therefore, after driving
through standing water, drive slowly and
lightly press on the brake pedal several times
to dry the brakes.
Failure to follow these warnings may result in
injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.
CAUTION!
Always check the depth of the standing water
before driving through it. Never drive through
standing water that is deeper than the bottom
of the tire rims mounted on the vehicle.
Determine the condition of the road or the
path that is under water and if there are any
obstacles in the way before driving through
the standing water.
Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h) when driving
through standing water. This will minimize
wave effects.
Driving through standing water may cause
damage to your vehicle’s drivetrain compo -
nents. Always inspect your vehicle’s fluids
(i.e., engine oil, transmission, axle, etc.) for
signs of contamination (i.e., fluid that is milky
or foamy in appearance) after driving through
standing water. Do not continue to operate
the vehicle if any fluid appears contaminated,
as this may result in further damage. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can
cause it to lock up and stall out, and cause
serious internal damage to the engine. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!

21_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 118

236IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
SEALING A TIRE WITH TIRE SERVICE KIT
(A) Whenever You Stop To Use Tire Service
Kit:

1. Pull over to a safe location and turn on the
vehicle’s Hazard Warning Flashers.

2. Verify that the valve stem (on the wheel with the deflated tire) is in a position that is near to
the ground. This will allow the Tire Service Kit
Hoses (4) and (8) to reach the valve stem and keep the Tire Service Kit flat on the ground.
This will provide the best positioning of the kit
when injecting the sealant into the deflated
tire and running the air pump. Move the
vehicle as necessary to place the valve stem in
this position before proceeding.
3. Place the transmission in PARK (auto transmission) or in Gear (manual
transmission) and place the ignition in the OFF
position.
4. Apply the parking brake.
(B) Setting Up To Use Tire Service Kit:

1. Push in the Mode Select Knob (6) and turn to the Sealant Mode position.

2. Uncoil the Sealant Hose (4) and then remove the cap from the fitting at the end of the hose.
3. Place the Tire Service Kit flat on the ground next to the deflated tire.
4. Remove the cap from the valve stem and then screw the fitting at the end of the Sealant Hose
(4) onto the valve stem.
5. Uncoil the Power Plug (7) and insert the plug into the vehicle’s 12 Volt power outlet.
NOTE:Do not remove foreign objects (e.g., screws or
nails) from the tire.
(C) Injecting Tire Service Kit Sealant Into
The Deflated Tire:
Always start the engine before turning ON the
Tire Service Kit.
NOTE:Manual transmission vehicles must have the
parking brake engaged and the gear selector in
NEUTRAL.
After pushing the Power Button (3), the sealant
(white fluid) will flow from the Sealant Bottle (1)
through the Sealant Hose (4) and into the tire.
NOTE:Sealant may leak out through the puncture in the
tire.
If the sealant (white fluid) does not flow within
0 – 10 seconds through the Sealant Hose :

1. Push the Power Button (3) to turn Off the Tire Service Kit. Disconnect the Sealant Hose (4)
from the valve stem. Make sure the valve
stem is free of debris. Reconnect the Sealant
Hose (4) to the valve stem. Check that the
Mode Select Knob (6) is in the Sealant Mode
position and not Air Mode. Push the Power
Button (3) to turn On the Tire Service Kit.

2. Connect the Power Plug (7) to a different 12 Volt power outlet in your vehicle or another
vehicle, if available. Make sure the engine is
running before turning ON the Tire Service Kit.
Take care not to allow the contents of Tire
Service Kit to come in contact with hair, eyes,
or clothing. Tire Service Kit sealant is harmful
if inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed through the
skin. It causes skin, eye, and respiratory irrita -
tion. Flush immediately with plenty of water if
there is any contact with eyes or skin. Change
clothing as soon as possible, if there is any
contact with clothing.
Tire Service Kit Sealant solution contains
latex. In case of an allergic reaction or rash,
consult a physician immediately. Keep Tire
Service Kit out of reach of children. If swal -
lowed, rinse mouth immediately with plenty of
water and drink plenty of water. Do not induce
vomiting! Consult a physician immediately.
WARNING!

21_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 236

266SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
CLUTCH HYDRAULIC SYSTEM — MANUAL
T
RANSMISSION (IF EQUIPPED)
The clutch hydraulic system is fed by a segregated
volume of fluid within the brake system master
cylinder reservoir. In the event of leakage or wear,
use only the manufacturer's recommended brake
fluid Ú page 306.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION — IF EQUIPPED
Fluid Level Check
Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug on the
left side of the transmission. The fluid level should
be 1/4 inch (6.4mm) below the bottom of the fill
hole. Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper
level Ú page 306.
Change Transmission Fluid
If contaminated with water, change the fluid
immediately. See an authorized dealer for service.
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 247.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION —
I
F EQUIPPED
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.
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 has no
dipstick. An authorized dealer can check your
transmission fluid level using special service tools.
If you notice fluid leakage or transmission
malfunction, visit an authorized dealer
immediately to have the transmission fluid level
checked. Operating the vehicle with an improper
fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.
Do not allow petroleum based fluid to contam -
inate the brake fluid. Brake seal components
could be damaged, causing partial or
complete brake failure. This could result in a
collision.
WARNING!CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer's recommended fluid may cause
deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or
damage to the transmission Ú page 306.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your
transmission as the chemicals can damage your
transmission components. Such damage is not
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
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.

21_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 266

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE267
(Continued)
Fluid And Filter Changes
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will provide satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not required.
However, change the fluid and filter if the fluid
becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the
transmission is disassembled for any reason.
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important to use the proper transmission fluid
to ensure optimum transmission performance and
life. Use only the manufacturer's specified
transmission fluid Ú page 306. It is important to
maintain the transmission fluid at the correct level
using the recommended fluid.
NOTE:No chemical flushes should be used in any trans -
mission; only the approved lubricant should be
used.
ALL WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) —
I
F EQUIPPED
The All Wheel Drive system consists of a transfer
case and front differential. The exterior surface of
these components should be inspected for
evidence of fluid leaks. Confirmed leaks should be
repaired as soon as possible.
The transfer case fluid fill/inspection plug is
located in the middle of the rear housing. To
inspect the transfer case fluid level, remove the
fill/inspection plug. The fluid level should be even
with the bottom of the hole. Use this plug to add
fluid as required.
The front differential fill plug is located on the outer
cover near the half shaft attachment. To inspect
the differential fluid level, remove the fill plug. The
fluid level should be even with or slightly below the
bottom of the hole.
Fluid Changes
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 246.
REAR AXLE
Fluid Level Check
Checking the fluid level while the vehicle is on level
ground and has been stationary for 15 minutes will
improve the accuracy of the fluid level reading. Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug on the
axle. The fluid level should be 1-2.5 mm below the
fill plug. Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the
proper level Ú
page 306.
Change Axle Fluid
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 246.
FUSES
General Information
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may cause
deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or
torque converter shudder Ú page 306.
WARNING!
When replacing a blown fuse, always use an
appropriate replacement fuse with the same
amp rating as the original fuse. Never replace
a fuse with another fuse of higher amp rating.
Never replace a blown fuse with metal wires or
any other material. Do not place a fuse inside
a circuit breaker cavity or vice versa. Failure to
use proper fuses may result in serious
personal injury, fire and/or property damage.
Before replacing a fuse, make sure that the
ignition is off and that all the other services
are switched off and/or disengaged.
If the replaced fuse blows again, contact an
authorized dealer.
8

21_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 267

312
INDEX
A
About Your Brakes.................................. 82, 301ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control........................... 93Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).......................... 93Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)............... 263Adding Washing Fluid.................................... 253Additives, Fuel............................................... 303AdjustForward................................................ 29, 31Rearward.............................................. 29, 31Advance Phone Connectivity......................... 159Air Bag........................................................... 201Advance Front Air Bag............................... 201Air Bag Operation...................................... 202Air Bag Warning Light................................ 200Enhanced Accident Response......... 206, 245Event Data Recorder (EDR)....................... 245Front Air Bag............................................. 201If Deployment Occurs................................ 206Knee Impact Bolsters................................ 203Maintaining Your Air Bag System.............. 207Maintenance............................................. 207Redundant Air Bag Warning Light.............201Side Air Bags............................................. 203Transporting Pets...................................... 223
Air Bag Light.................................. 69, 200, 223
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter)... 256
Air Conditioner Maintenance........................ 257Air Conditioner Refrigerant.................. 257, 258Air Conditioner System................................. 257Air Conditioning................................................ 48Air Conditioning Filter..............................52, 258Air Conditioning System................................... 48Air Conditioning, Operating Tips....................... 51Air Filter............................................... 256, 257Air PressureTires......................................................... 288AlarmArm The System................................... 20, 21Rearm The System...................................... 21Security Alarm...................................... 20, 72Alarm SystemSecurity Alarm............................................. 20All Wheel Drive (AWD)................................... 267Alterations/ModificationsVehicle........................................................... 9Android Auto........................................ 161, 162Android Auto™
b
....................................... 161Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)................. 263, 305Disposal................................................... 264
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)....................... 178Anti-Lock Warning Light...................................72Apple CarPlay....................................... 161, 164Apple CarPlay®
b
...................................... 163Arming SystemSecurity Alarm.............................................20Assist, Hill Start............................................. 182Audio Settings............................................... 146Audio Systems (Radio).................................. 119Auto Down Power Windows..............................56Automatic Door Locks......................................24Automatic Headlights.......................................43Automatic High Beams.....................................42Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)..............51Automatic Transmission...................................87Adding Fluid..................................... 267, 307Fluid And Filter Change............................. 267Fluid Change............................................. 267Fluid Level Check...................................... 266Fluid Type........................................ 267, 307Special Additives...................................... 266
Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode...24, 90
AutoPark..........................................................80

21_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 312