2021 JEEP PATRIOT service schedule

Summer Operation
The engine cooling system must be protected
with a high-quality antifreeze coolant to provide
proper corrosion protection and to protect
against engine overheating. A solution of 50%
OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant that
meets the requirements of FCA Material Stan-
dard MS.90032 and 50% water is recom-
mended. Refer to “Maintenance Procedures” in
“Maintaining Your Vehicle” for proper coolant
selection.
Winter Operation
Use of the air Recirculation Mode during winter
months is not recommended because it may
cause window fogging.
Vacation Storage
Anytime you store your vehicle, or keep it out of
service (i.e., vacation) for two weeks or more,
run the air conditioning system at idle for about
five minutes in the fresh air and high blower
settings. This will ensure adequate system lu-
brication to minimize the possibility of compres-
sor damage when the system is started again.Window Fogging
Interior fogging on the windshield can be quickly
removed by turning the mode selector to De-
frost. The Defrost/Floor mode can be used to
maintain a clear windshield and provide suffi-
cient heating. If side window fogging becomes a
problem, increase blower speed. Vehicle win-
dows tend to fog on the inside in mild but rainy
or humid weather.
NOTE:
Recirculate without A/C should not be used
for long periods as fogging may occur.
Side Window Demisters
A side window demister outlet is located at each
end of the instrument panel. These non-
adjustable outlets direct air toward the side
windows when the system is in the FLOOR,
MIX, or DEFROST mode. The air is directed at
the area of the windows through which you view
the outside mirrors.Outside Air Intake
Make sure the air intake, located directly in front
of the windshield, is free of obstructions such as
leaves. Leaves collected in the air intake may
reduce airflow, and if they enter the plenum,
they could plug the water drains. In winter
months, make sure the air intake is clear of ice,
slush, and snow.
A/C Air Filter — If Equipped
The A/C Filter prevents most dust and pollen
from entering the cabin. The filter acts on air
coming from outside the vehicle and recircu-
lated air within the passenger compartment.
Refer to “Maintenance Procedures” in “Main-
taining Your Vehicle” for A/C Air Filter service
information or see your authorized dealer for
service. Refer to “Maintenance Schedules” in
“Maintaining Your Vehicle” for filter service inter-
vals.
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WARNING!(Continued)
•When leaving the vehicle, always remove
the ignition key from the vehicle and lock
the vehicle.
•Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or
with access to an unlocked vehicle. Allow-
ing children to be in a vehicle unattended
is dangerous for a number of reasons. A
child or others could be seriously or fatally
injured. Children should be warned not to
touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the
transmission gear selector.
•Do not leave the ignition key in or near the
vehicle (or in a location accessible to chil-
dren). A child could operate power win-
dows, other controls, or move the vehicle.
Key Ignition Park InterlockThis vehicle is equipped with a Key Ignition Park
Interlock which requires the transmission to be
in PARK before the ignition switch can be turned
to the LOCK/OFF (key removal) position. The
key can only be removed from the ignition whenthe ignition is in the LOCK/OFF position, and
once removed the transmission is locked in
PARK.
NOTE:
If a malfunction occurs, the system will trap
the key in the ignition switch to warn you
that this safety feature is inoperable. The
engine can be started and stopped but the
key cannot be removed until you obtain
service.
Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock
System
This vehicle is equipped with a Brake Transmis-
sion Shift Interlock system (BTSI) that holds the
gear selector in PARK unless the brakes are
applied. To shift the transmission out of PARK,
the ignition switch must be turned to the ON/
RUN position (engine running or not) and the
brake pedal must be pressed.
Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
— 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.
The electronically-controlled transmission pro-
vides a precise shift schedule. The transmission
electronics are self-calibrating; therefore, the
first few shifts on a new vehicle may be some-
what abrupt. This is a normal condition, and
precision shifts will develop within a few hun-
dred miles (kilometers).
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
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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.
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These indicators are molded into the bottom of
the tread grooves. They will appear as bands
when the tread depth becomes a 1/16 of an inch
(1.6 mm). When the tread is worn to the tread
wear indicators, the tire should be replaced.
Refer to “Replacement Tires” in this section for
further information.
Life Of TireThe service life of a tire is dependent upon
varying factors including, but not limited to:•Driving style.
•Tire pressure - Improper cold tire inflation
pressures can cause uneven wear patterns
to develop across the tire tread. These ab-
normal wear patterns will reduce tread life,
resulting in the need for earlier tire
replacement.
•Distance driven.
•Performance tires, tires with a speed rating of
V or higher, and Summer tires typically have
a reduced tread life. Rotation of these tires
per the vehicle maintenance schedule is
highly recommended.
WARNING!
Tires and the spare tire should be replaced
after six years, regardless of the remaining
tread. Failure to follow this warning can
result in sudden tire failure. You could lose
control and have a collision resulting in seri-
ous injury or death.Keep dismounted tires in a cool, dry place with
as little exposure to light as possible. Protect
tires from contact with oil, grease, and gasoline.
Replacement TiresThe tires on your new vehicle provide a balance
of many characteristics. They should be in-
spected regularly for wear and correct cold tire
inflation pressures. The manufacturer strongly
recommends that you use tires equivalent to the
originals in size, quality and performance when
replacement is needed. Refer to the paragraph
on “Tread Wear Indicator”. Refer to the Tire and
Loading Information placard or the Vehicle Cer-
tification Label for the size designation of your
tire. The Load Index and Speed Symbol for your
tire will be found on the original equipment tire
sidewall. See the Tire Sizing Chart example
found in the “Tire Safety Information” section of
this manual for more information relating to the
Load Index and Speed Symbol of a tire.
It is recommended to replace the two front tires
or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just one tire
can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling. If
Tire Tread
1 — Worn Tire
2 — New Tire
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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

Synthetic Engine Oils
There are a number of engine oils being pro-
moted as either synthetic or semi-synthetic. If
you chose to use such a product, use only those
oils that are approved to FCA MS-6395 or FCA
Material Standard 9.55535-CR1. Follow the
maintenance schedule that describes your driv-
ing type.
Materials Added To Engine Oil
The manufacturer strongly recommends
against the addition of any additives (other than
leak detection dyes) to the engine oil. Engine oil
is an engineered product and its performance
may be impaired by supplemental additives.
Disposing Of Used Engine Oil And Oil
Filters
Care should be taken in disposing of used
engine oil and oil filters from your vehicle. Used
oil and oil filters, indiscriminately discarded, can
present a problem to the environment. Contact
your authorized dealer, service station or gov-
ernmental agency for advice on how and where
used oil and oil filters can be safely discarded in
your area.Engine Oil FilterThe engine oil filter should be replaced with a
new filter at every engine oil change.
Engine Oil Filter Selection
This manufacturer’s engines have a full-flow
type oil filter. Use a filter of this type for replace-
ment. The quality of replacement filters varies
considerably. Only high quality filters should be
used to assure most efficient service. MOPAR
engine oil filters are a high quality oil filter and
are recommended.
Engine Air Cleaner FilterRefer to the “Maintenance Schedule” in the
“Maintenance Schedules” section for the proper
maintenance intervals.
WARNING!
The air induction system (air cleaner, hoses,
etc.) can provide a measure of protection in
the case of engine backfire. Do not remove
the air induction system (air cleaner, hoses,
etc.) unless such removal is necessary for
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
repair or maintenance. Make sure that no
one is near the engine compartment before
starting the vehicle with the air induction
system (air cleaner, hoses, etc.) removed.
Failure to do so can result in serious per-
sonal injury.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Selection
The quality of replacement engine air cleaner
filters varies considerably. Only high quality
filters should be used to assure most efficient
service. MOPAR engine air cleaner filters are a
high quality filter and are recommended.
Maintenance-Free BatteryYour vehicle is equipped with a maintenance-
free battery. You will never have to add water,
nor is periodic maintenance required.
258

CAUTION!(Continued)
Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling
R-134a Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydro-
fluorocarbon (HFC) that is endorsed by the
Environmental Protection Agency and is an
ozone-saving product. However, the manufac-
turer recommends that air conditioning service
be performed by authorized dealer or other
service facilities using recovery and recycling
equipment.
NOTE:
Use only manufacturer approved A/C sys-
tem PAG compressor oil and refrigerants.
A/C Air Filter
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals.
WARNING!
Do not remove the A/C air filter while the
vehicle is running, or while the ignition is in
the ACC or ON/RUN mode. With the A/C air
filter removed and the blower operating, the
blower can contact hands and may propel
dirt and debris into your eyes, resulting in
personal injury.
The A/C air filter is located in the fresh air inlet
behind the glove compartment. Perform the
following procedure to replace the filter:
1. Open the glove compartment and remove all
contents.
2. Push in on the sides of the glove compart-
ment and lower the door.
3. Pivot the glove compartment downward.
4. Disengage the two retaining tabs that secure
the filter cover to the HVAC housing, and
remove the cover.5. Remove the A/C air filter by pulling it straight
out of the housing.
6. Install the A/C air filter with the arrow on the
filter pointing toward the floor. When install-
ing the filter cover, make sure the retaining
tabs fully engage the cover.
A/C Air Filter Replacement
260

NOTE:
Intentional tampering with emissions con-
trol systems can result in civil penalties
being assessed against you.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunc-
tioning engine operation, a scorching odor may
suggest severe and abnormal catalyst over-
heating. If this occurs, stop the vehicle, turn off
the engine and allow it to cool. Service, includ-
ing a tune-up to manufacturer’s specifications,
should be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter
damage:
•Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the
ignition, when the transmission is in gear and
the vehicle is in motion.
•Do not try to start the engine by pushing or
towing the vehicle.
•Do not idle the engine with any spark plug
wires disconnected or removed, such as
when diagnostic testing, or for prolonged
periods during very rough idle or malfunction-
ing operating conditions.Cooling System
WARNING!
•When working near the radiator cooling
fan, disconnect the fan motor lead or turn
the ignition switch to the OFF position. The
fan is temperature controlled and can start
at any time the ignition switch is in the ON
position.
•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 is hot.
Coolant Checks
Check engine coolant (antifreeze) protection
every 12 months (before the onset of freezing
weather, where applicable). If the engine cool-
ant (antifreeze) is dirty or rusty in appearance,
the system should be drained, flushed, and
refilled with fresh engine coolant (antifreeze).Check the front of the A/C condenser for any
accumulation of bugs, leaves, etc. If dirty, clean
by gently spraying water from a garden hose
vertically down the face of the condenser.
Check the coolant recovery bottle tubing for
brittle rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, and tight-
ness of the connection at the bottle and radiator.
Inspect the entire system for leaks.
Cooling System – Drain, Flush, And Refill
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the
proper maintenance intervals.
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or
contains a considerable amount of sediment,
clean and flush with a reliable cooling system
cleaner. Follow with a thorough rinsing to re-
move all deposits and chemicals. Properly dis-
pose of old engine coolant (antifreeze).
Selection Of Coolant
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine
Parts” in “Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further
information.
263