•Flash hazard lights as long as the battery has
power or until the hazard light button is
pressed. The hazard lights can be deacti-
vated by pressing the hazard light button.
•Turn on the interior lights, which remain on as
long as the battery has power.
•Unlock the power door locks.
Enhanced Accident Response System
Reset Procedure
In order to reset the Enhanced Accident Re-
sponse System functions after an event, the
ignition must be changed from the START or
ON/RUN position to the OFF position. Carefully
check the vehicle for fuel leaks in the engine
compartment and on the ground near the en-
gine compartment and fuel tank before resetting
the system and starting the engine.
Air Bag Warning Light
The air bags must be ready to
inflate for your protection in a colli-
sion. The Occupant Restraint Con-
troller (ORC) monitors the internal
circuits and interconnecting wiring
associated with air bag system electrical com-
ponents.The ORC monitors the readiness of the elec-
tronic parts of the air bag system whenever the
ignition is placed in the START or ON/RUN
position. If the ignition is in the OFF position or
in the ACC position, the air bag system is not on
and the air bags will not inflate.
The ORC contains a backup power supply
system that may deploy the air bags even if the
battery loses power or it becomes disconnected
prior to deployment.
The ORC turns on the Air Bag Warning Light in
the instrument panel for approximately four to
eight seconds for a self-check when the ignition
is first placed in the ON/RUN position. After the
self-check, the Air Bag Warning Light will turn
off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in any part
of the system, it turns on the Air Bag Warning
Light, either momentarily or continuously. A
single chime will sound to alert you if the light
comes on again after initial startup.
The ORC also includes diagnostics that will
illuminate the instrument panel Air Bag Warning
Light if a malfunction is detected that could
affect the air bag system. The diagnostics also
record the nature of the malfunction. While theair bag system is designed to be maintenance
free, if any of the following occurs, have an
authorized dealer service the air bag system
immediately.
•The Air Bag Warning Light does not come on
during the four to eight seconds when the
ignition is first placed in the ON/RUN posi-
tion.
•The Air Bag Warning Light remains on after
the four to eight-second interval.
•The Air Bag Warning Light comes on inter-
mittently or remains on while driving.
NOTE:
If the speedometer, tachometer, or any en-
gine related gauges are not working, the
Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) may
also be disabled. In this condition the air
bags may not be ready to inflate for your
protection. Have an authorized dealer ser-
vice the air bag system immediately.
44
CAUTION!
Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for
any other reason with the transmission in
NEUTRAL can cause severe transmission
damage. Refer to “Recreational Towing” in
“Starting And Operating” and “Towing A Dis-
abled Vehicle” in “What To Do In Emergen-
cies” for further information.
DRIVE (D)
This range should be used for most city and
highway driving. It provides the smoothest up-
shifts and downshifts, and the best fuel
economy. The transmission automatically up-
shifts through underdrive first, second, third,
and fourth gears, direct fifth gear and overdrive
sixth gear. The DRIVE position provides opti-
mum driving characteristics under all normal
operating conditions.
When frequent transmission shifting occurs
(such as when operating the vehicle under
heavy loading conditions, in hilly terrain, travel-
ing into strong head winds, or while towing
heavy trailers), use the AutoStick shift control(refer to “AutoStick (Six-Speed Automatic
Transmission)” in this section for further infor-
mation) to select a lower gear. Under these
conditions, using a lower gear will improve
performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
If the transmission temperature exceeds normal
operating limits, the transmission controller will
modify the transmission shift schedule and ex-
pand the range of torque converter clutch en-
gagement. This is done to prevent transmission
damage due to overheating. If the transmission
becomes extremely hot, the “Transmission
Temperature Warning Light” may illuminate and
the transmission may operate differently until
the transmission cools down.
During very cold temperatures (-4°F [-20°C] or
below), transmission operation may be modified
depending on engine and transmission tem-
perature as well as vehicle speed. Normal op-
eration will resume once the transmission tem-
perature has risen to a suitable level.
Transmission Limp Home Mode
Transmission function is monitored electroni-
cally for abnormal conditions. If a condition isdetected that could result in transmission dam-
age, Transmission Limp Home Mode is acti-
vated. In this mode, the transmission remains in
fourth gear regardless of which forward gear is
selected. PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL will
continue to operate. The Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) may be illuminated. Limp Home
Mode allows the vehicle to be driven to an
authorized dealer for service without damaging
the transmission.
In the event of a momentary problem, the
transmission can be reset to regain all forward
gears by performing the following steps:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission into PARK.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK/OFF
position.
4. Wait approximately 10 seconds.
5. Restart the engine.
6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the
problem is no longer detected, the transmis-
sion will return to normal operation.
172
NOTE:
Even if the transmission can be reset, we
recommend that you visit your authorized
dealer at your earliest possible conve-
nience. Your authorized dealer has diagnos-
tic equipment to determine if the problem
could recur.
If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized
dealer service is required.
Overdrive Operation
The automatic transmission includes an elec-
tronically controlled Overdrive (sixth gear). The
transmission will automatically shift into Over-
drive if the following conditions are present:
•The gear selector is in the DRIVE position.
•The transmission fluid has reached an ad-
equate temperature.
•The engine coolant has reached an ad-
equate temperature.
•The vehicle speed is sufficiently high.
•The driver is not heavily pressing the
accelerator.Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy
has been included in the automatic transmis-
sion on your vehicle. A clutch within the torque
converter engages automatically at calibrated
speeds. This may result in a slightly different
feeling or response during normal operation in
the upper gears. When the vehicle speed drops
or during some accelerations, the clutch auto-
matically disengages.
NOTE:
Engagement of the torque converter clutch
is inhibited at very cold temperatures. Be-
cause the engine speed is higher when the
torque converter clutch is not engaged, it
may seem as if the transmission is not
shifting into Overdrive when cold. This is
normal. The torque converter clutch will
function normally once the transmission is
sufficiently warm.
Continuously Variable Automatic
Transmission (CVT) — If Equipped
The transmission gear position display (located
in the instrument cluster) indicates the transmis-
sion gear range. You must press the brakepedal to move the gear selector out of PARK
(refer to “Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock
System” in this section). To drive, move the gear
selector from PARK or NEUTRAL to the DRIVE
position.
NOTE:
The Continuously Variable Automatic Trans-
mission (CVT) changes ratios in a continu-
ous manner. This may sometimesfeelas if
it is slipping, but this is normal and does not
harm anything.
Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE
when the accelerator pedal is released and the
vehicle is stopped. Be sure to keep your foot on
the brake pedal when shifting between these
gears.
The transmission gear selector has only PARK,
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, and DRIVE shift posi-
tions. Manual shifts can be made using the
AutoStick shift control (refer to"AutoStick"in
this section). Moving the gear selector to the left
or right (-/+) while in the DRIVE position will
manually select from a set of predefined trans-
mission gear ratios, and will display the current
gear in the instrument cluster as 1, 2, 3, etc.
173
Loose Fuel Filler Cap MessageAfter fuel is added, the vehicle diagnostic sys-
tem can determine if the fuel filler cap is possi-
bly loose or improperly installed. A “gASCAP”
message will be displayed in the instrument
cluster. Tighten the gas cap until a “clicking”
sound is heard. This is an indication that the gas
cap is properly tightened. Push the trip odom-
eter RESET button to turn off the message. If
the problem persists, the message will appear
the next time the vehicle is started. This might
indicate a damaged cap. If the problem is
detected twice in a row, the system will turn on
the MIL. Resolving the problem will turn the MIL
light off.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Use of genuine MOPAR parts for normal/
scheduled maintenance and repairs is highly
recommended to ensure the designed perfor-
mance. Damage or failures caused by the use
of non-MOPAR parts for maintenance and re-
pairs will not be covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
The pages that follow contain therequired
maintenance services determined by the engi-
neers who designed your vehicle.
Besides those maintenance items specified in
the fixed “Maintenance Schedule”, there are
other components which may require servicing
or replacement in the future.
CAUTION!
•Failure to properly maintain your vehicle or
perform repairs and service when neces-
sary could result in more costly repairs,
damage to other components or negatively
impact vehicle performance. Immediately
have potential malfunctions examined by
an authorized dealer or qualified repair
center.
(Continued)
CAUTION!(Continued)
•Your vehicle has been built with improved
fluids that protect the performance and
durability of your vehicle and also allow
extended maintenance intervals. Do not
use chemical flushes in these components
as the chemicals can damage your engine,
transmission, or air conditioning. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty. If a flush is needed
because of component malfunction, use
only the specified fluid for the flushing
procedure.
Engine Oil
Checking Oil Level
To assure proper engine lubrication, 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 engine is
shut off. Do not check oil level before starting
256
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends
against using any special additives in the trans-
mission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engi-
neered product and its performance may be
impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore,
do not add any fluid additives to the transmis-
sion. The only exception to this policy is the use
of special dyes for diagnosing fluid leaks. Avoid
using transmission sealers as they may ad-
versely affect seals.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your trans-
mission as the chemicals can damage your
transmission components. Such damage is
not covered by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
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 special service tools. If you notice fluid
leakage or transmission malfunction, visit your
authorized dealer immediately to have the
transmission fluid level checked. Operating the
vehicle with an improper fluid level can cause
severe transmission damage.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit your
authorized dealer immediately. Severe trans-
mission damage may occur. Your authorized
dealer has the proper tools to adjust the fluid
level accurately.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will provide satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle. However, if
the vehicle is frequently driven on rough or
unpaved roads, on mountain roads, on short
trips, or in heavy city traffic during hot weather,or is used for frequent trailer towing, police,
fleet, taxi, etc., change the fluid as indicated in
the Maintenance Schedule. In addition, change
the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes contami-
nated (with water, etc.), or if the transmission is
disassembled for any reason.
Automatic Transmission (CVT) — If
Equipped
Selection Of Lubricant (CVT)
It is important to use the proper transmission
fluid to ensure optimum transmission perfor-
mance and life. Use only the manufacturer’s
specified transmission fluid which has the spe-
cial friction coefficient additives necessary for
proper steel belt traction on the drive and driven
pulleys. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genu-
ine Parts” in this section for fluid specifications.
It is important to maintain the transmission fluid
at the correct level using the recommended
fluid.
No chemical flushes should be used in any
transmission; only the approved lubricant
should be used.
268
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may
cause belt slip and result in a complete
transmission failure! Refer to “Fluids, Lubri-
cants, And Genuine Parts” in this section for
fluid specifications.
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends
against using any special additives in the trans-
mission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engi-
neered product and its performance may be
impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore,
do not add any fluid additives to the transmis-
sion. The only exception to this policy is the use
of special dyes for diagnosing fluid leaks. Avoid
using transmission sealers as they may ad-
versely affect seals.CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your trans-
mission as the chemicals can damage your
transmission components. Such damage is
not covered by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
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 special service tools. If you notice fluid
leakage or transmission malfunction, visit your
authorized dealer immediately to have the
transmission fluid level checked. Operating the
vehicle with an improper fluid level can cause
severe transmission damage.CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit your
authorized dealer immediately. Severe trans-
mission damage may occur. Your authorized
dealer has the proper tools to adjust the fluid
level accurately.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Refer to the"Maintenance Schedule"for the
proper maintenance intervals. In addition,
change the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes
contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the trans-
mission is disassembled for any reason.
Manual Transmission — If Equipped
Lubricant Selection
Use only the manufacturers recommended
transmission fluid. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants,
And Genuine Parts” in “Maintaining Your Ve-
hicle” for further information.
269
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Maintenance Schedule — Gasoline
Engine
The Scheduled Maintenance services listed in
this manual must be done at the times or
mileages specified to protect your vehicle war-
ranty and ensure the best vehicle performance
and reliability. More frequent maintenance may
be needed for vehicles in severe operating
conditions, such as dusty areas and very short
trip driving. Inspection and service should also
be done anytime a malfunction is suspected.
The oil change indicator system will remind you
that it is time to take your vehicle in for sched-
uled maintenance.
On Non-EVIC equipped vehicles, “CHANgE
OIL” will flash in the instrument cluster odom-
eter and a single chime will sound, indicating
that an oil change is necessary.
The oil change indicator message will illuminate
approximately 7,000 miles (11,200 km) after the
most recent oil change was performed. Have
your vehicle serviced as soon as possible,
within 500 miles (800 km). However, an earlieroil change at 4,500 miles (7,500 km) may be
required if the vehicle is operated under “Se-
vere Duty Conditions” later in this section.
NOTE:
•The oil change indicator message will not
monitor the time since the last oil change.
Change your vehicle’s oil if it has been 12
months since your last oil change even if
the oil change indicator message is NOT
illuminated.
•Change your engine oil more often if you
drive your vehicle off-road for an ex-
tended period of time.
•Under no circumstances should oil
change intervals exceed 7,500 miles
(12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever
comes first.
Your dealer will reset the oil change indicator
message after completing the scheduled oil
change. If this scheduled oil change is per-
formed by someone other than your dealer, the
message can be reset by referring to the steps
described under “Instrument ClusterDescription/Odometer/Trip Odometer” in “Un-
derstanding Your Instrument Panel” for further
information.
Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip
•Check the engine oil level about five minutes
after a fully warmed engine is shut off.
Checking the oil level while the vehicle is on
level ground will improve the accuracy of the
oil level reading. Add oil only when the level
is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
•Check the windshield washer solvent and
add if required.
•Check tire pressure and look for unusual
wear or damage. Rotate tires at the first sign
of irregular wear, even if it occurs before the
oil indicator system turns on.
•Inspect the battery and clean and tighten the
terminals as required.
•Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir,
automatic transmission, brake master cylin-
der and power steering and fill as needed.
•Check all lights and other electrical items for
correct operation.
284
High Beam/Low Beam Select......98
Instrument Cluster............96
License..................280
Lights On Reminder............97
Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine) .129
Map Reading...............99
Park...................136
Passing..................98
Seat Belt Reminder...........123
Security Alarm..........15, 16, 125
Service..................279
Side Repeater..............279
Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS) . . .130
Traction Control.............193
Turn Signal......60, 96, 97, 136, 280
Warning (Instrument Cluster
Description)............126, 136
Locks......................21
Automatic Door..............22
Child Protection..............23
Door....................21
Power Door................21
Steering Wheel..............13
Lubrication, Body...............261
Lug Nuts...................228
Luggage Rack (Roof Rack).........114Lumbar Support................91
Maintenance Free Battery..........258
Maintenance Procedures..........256
Maintenance Schedule.........284, 285
Malfunction Indicator Light
(Check Engine)..............129
Manual Transaxle..............165
Fluid Level Check............270
Lubricant Selection...........270
Manual Transmission..........166, 269
Fluid Level Check............270
Frequency Of Fluid Change......270
Lubricant Selection...........269
Map/Reading Lights..............99
Master Cylinder (Brakes)..........266
Methanol..................
.210
Methanol Fuel................210
Mirrors.....................65
Automatic Dimming............65
Electric Powered.............66
Exterior Folding..............66
Heated...................66
Outside..................65
Rearview..................65
Vanity...................66Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle.......8
Monitor, Tire Pressure System.......204
MOPAR Parts.................256
Multi-Function Control Lever.........96
Navigation System (Uconnect GPS). . . .149
New Vehicle Break-In Period.........57
Occupant Restraints..............26
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel).......210
Oil Change Indicator.............140
Oil Change Indicator, Reset.........140
Oil Filter, Change...............258
Oil Filter, Selection..............258
Oil Pressure Light..............126
Oil, Engine...............256, 280
Capacity.................280
Change Interval.............257
Checking.................256
Disposal.................258
Filter...................258
Filter Disposal..............258
Identification Logo............257
Materials Added To...........258
Pressure Warning Light.........126
Recommendation.........257, 280
322