SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE233
(Continued)
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 replacement.
Ride Comfort And Vehicle Stability
Proper tire inflation contributes to a comfortable
ride. Overinflation produces a jarring and
uncomfortable ride.
Tire Inflation Pressures
The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed on
the driver's side B-pillar or rear edge of the driver's
side door.
At least once a month:
Check and adjust tire pressure with a good
quality pocket-type pressure gauge. Do not
make a visual judgment when determining
proper inflation. Tires may look properly inflated
even when they are under-inflated.
Inspect tires for signs of tire wear or visible
damage.
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.
WARNING!
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234SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Inflation pressures specified on the placard are always
“cold tire inflation pressure”. Cold tire inflation
pressure is defined as the tire pressure after the
vehicle has not been driven for at least three hours,
or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km) after sitting for a minimum of three hours. The cold tire inflation pressure
must not exceed the maximum inflation pressure
molded into the tire sidewall.
Check tire pressures more often if subject to a
wide range of outdoor temperatures, as tire
pressures vary with temperature changes.
Tire pressures change by approximately 1 psi
(7 kPa) per 12°F (7°C) of air temperature change.
Keep this in mind when checking tire pressure
inside a garage, especially in the Winter.
Example: If garage temperature = 68°F (20°C)
and the outside temperature = 32°F (0°C) then
the cold tire inflation pressure should be increased
by 3 psi (21 kPa), which equals 1 psi (7 kPa) for
every 12°F (7°C) for this outside temperature
condition. Tire pressure may increase from 2 to 6 psi
(13 to 40 kPa) during operation. DO NOT reduce
this normal pressure build-up or your tire pressure
will be too low.
Tire Pressures For High Speed Operation
The manufacturer advocates driving at safe
speeds and within posted speed limits. Where
speed limits or conditions are such that the vehicle
can be driven at high speeds, maintaining correct
tire inflation pressure is very important. Increased
tire pressure and reduced vehicle loading may be
required for high-speed vehicle operation. Refer to
an authorized tire dealer or original equipment
vehicle dealer for recommended safe operating
speeds, loading and cold tire inflation pressures.
Radial Ply Tires
Tire Repair
If your tire becomes damaged, it may be repaired if
it meets the following criteria:
The tire has not been driven on when flat.
The damage is only on the tread section of your
tire (sidewall damage is not repairable).
The puncture is no greater than a ¼ of an inch
(6 mm).
Consult an authorized tire dealer for tire repairs
and additional information.
Damaged Run Flat tires, or Run Flat tires that have
experienced a loss of pressure should be replaced
immediately with another Run Flat tire of identical
size and service description (Load Index and
Speed Symbol). Replace the tire pressure sensor
as well as it is not designed to be reused.
CAUTION!
After inspecting or adjusting the tire pressure,
always reinstall the valve stem cap. This will
prevent moisture and dirt from entering the
valve stem, which could damage the valve stem.
WARNING!
High speed driving with your vehicle under
maximum load is dangerous. The added strain
on your tires could cause them to fail. You could
have a serious collision. Do not drive a vehicle
loaded to the maximum capacity at continuous
speeds above 75 mph (120 km/h).
WARNING!
Combining radial ply tires with other types of tires
on your vehicle will cause your vehicle to handle
poorly. The instability could cause a collision.
Always use radial ply tires in sets of four. Never
combine them with other types of tires.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE235
Run Flat Tires — If Equipped
Run Flat tires allow you the capability to drive
50 miles (80 km) at 50 mph (80 km/h) after a
rapid loss of inflation pressure. This rapid loss of
inflation is referred to as the Run Flat mode. A Run
Flat mode occurs when the tire inflation pressure is
of/or below 14 psi (96 kPa). Once a Run Flat tire
reaches the run flat mode it has limited driving
capabilities and needs to be replaced immediately.
A Run Flat tire is not repairable. When a run flat tire
is changed after driving with under-inflated tire
condition, please replace the TPMS sensor as it is
not designed to be reused when driven under run
flat mode 14 psi (96 kPa) condition.
NOTE:TPMS sensor must be replaced after driving the
vehicle on a flat tire condition.
It is not recommended driving a vehicle loaded at
full capacity or to tow a trailer while a tire is in the
run flat mode.
See the Tire Pressure Monitoring System section
for more information.
Tire Spinning
When stuck in mud, sand, snow, or ice conditions,
do not spin your vehicle's wheels above 30 mph
(48 km/h) or for longer than 30 seconds
continuously without stopping.
Refer to “Freeing A Stuck Vehicle” for further
information Úpage 196.
Tread Wear Indicators
Tread wear indicators are in the original equipment
tires to help you in determining when your tires
should be replaced.
Tire Tread
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.
Life Of Tire
The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying
factors including, but not limited to:
Driving style.
Tire pressure - Improper cold tire inflation pres
-
sures can cause uneven wear patterns to
develop across the tire tread. These abnormal
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 scheduled maintenance is highly
recommended.
WARNING!
Fast spinning tires can be dangerous. Forces
generated by excessive wheel speeds may
cause tire damage or failure. A tire could
explode and injure someone. Do not spin your
vehicle's wheels faster than 30 mph (48 km/h)
for more than 30 seconds continuously when
you are stuck, and do not let anyone near a
spinning wheel, no matter what the speed.
1 — Worn Tire
2 — New Tire
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 serious injury or death.
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236SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
NOTE:Wheel Valve Stem must be replaced as well when
installing new tires due to wear and tear in existing
tires.
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 Tires
The tires on your new vehicle provide a balance of many
characteristics. They should be inspected 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 Indicators” in this section.
Refer to the Tire and Loading Information placard or the
Vehicle Certification 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 Úpage 226.
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 you ever
replace a wheel, make sure that the wheel’s
specifications match those of the original wheels. It is recommended you contact an authorized tire
dealer or original equipment dealer with any
questions you may have on tire specifications or
capability. Failure to use equivalent replacement
tires may adversely affect the safety, handling, and
ride of your vehicle.
TIRE TYPES
All Season Tires — If Equipped
All Season tires provide traction for all seasons
(Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter). Traction
levels may vary between different all season tires.
All season tires can be identified by the M+S, M&S,
M/S or MS designation on the tire sidewall. Use all
season tires only in sets of four; failure to do so
may adversely affect the safety and handling of
your vehicle.
Summer Or Three Season Tires —
If Equipped
Summer tires provide traction in both wet and dry
conditions, and are not intended to be driven in snow or
on ice. If your vehicle is equipped with Summer tires, be
aware these tires are not designed for Winter or cold
driving conditions. Install Winter tires on your vehicle
when ambient temperatures are less than 40°F (5°C)
or if roads are covered with ice or snow. For more
information, contact an authorized dealer.
WARNING!
Do not use a tire, wheel size, load rating, or speed
rating other than that specified for your vehicle.
Some combinations of unapproved tires and
wheels may change suspension dimensions and
performance characteristics, resulting in changes
to steering, handling, and braking of your vehicle.
This can cause unpredictable handling and stress
to steering and suspension components. You
could lose control and have a collision resulting in
serious injury or death. Use only the tire and wheel
sizes with load ratings approved for your vehicle.
Never use a tire with a smaller load index or
capacity, other than what was originally equipped
on your vehicle. Using a tire with a smaller load
index could result in tire overloading and failure.
You could lose control and have a collision.
Failure to equip your vehicle with tires having
adequate speed capability can result in
sudden tire failure and loss of vehicle control.
CAUTION!
Replacing original tires with tires of a different
size may result in false speedometer and
odometer readings.
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261
Interior
........................................................ 35Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine)......... 63Park...................................................... 33, 66Passing........................................................ 33Rear Cargo Door Open Warning Light.......... 61Seat Belt Reminder..................................... 61Security Alarm............................................. 61Service...................................................... 220Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)............... 151Tow Haul..................................................... 65TowingHookBreakdown............................... 64Traction Control......................................... 140Turn Signals....................................... 32, 174Warning Instrument Cluster Descriptions.... 60Loading Vehicle................................... 109, 110Capacities................................................. 110Tires.......................................................... 230Locks Automatic Door.................................... 20, 22Low Tire Pressure System............................. 151Lubrication, Body........................................... 207Lug Nuts/Bolts.............................................. 247
M
Maintenance Free Battery............................. 204Maintenance Schedule.................................. 198Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine)..... 63ManualService...................................................... 255Methanol....................................................... 249
Mirrors............................................................. 29Electric Remote........................................... 31Exterior Folding............................................ 31Heated......................................................... 32Outside........................................................ 30Rearview.............................................29, 176Modifications/AlterationsVehicle........................................................... 8Monitor, Tire Pressure System...................... 151Mopar Parts.................................................. 255MP3 Control..................................................... 44Multi-Function Control Lever............................ 32
N
New Vehicle Break-In Period............................ 70
O
Occupant Restraints..................................... 154Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel)..................... 248Oil Change Indicator........................................ 56Reset........................................................... 56Oil Filter, Change.......................................... 205Oil Filter, Selection........................................ 205Oil Pressure Light............................................. 61Oil, Engine............................................ 205, 251Capacity.................................................... 251Checking................................................... 203Dipstick.................................................... 203
Disposal.................................................... 205Filter................................................ 205, 251Filter Disposal........................................... 205Identification Logo.................................... 205Materials Added To................................... 205Pressure Warning Light................................61Recommendation............................ 205, 251Synthetic................................................... 205Viscosity.................................................... 251Onboard Diagnostic System.............................67Operating Precautions.....................................67Operator ManualOwner's Manual........................................ 255Outside Rearview Mirrors.......................... 29, 30Overheating, Engine...................................... 194
P
Paint Care..................................................... 243Parking Brake..................................................71ParkSenseFront And Rear.............................................96ParkSense System, Rear..................................96Passing Light....................................................33Passive Entry....................................................21Personal Settings.............................................58Pets............................................................... 173Placard, Tire And Loading Information.......... 23011
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263
Starting
............................................................ 69Automatic Transmission.............................. 69Button......................................................... 16Cold Weather.............................................. 69Engine Fails To Start................................... 70Steering........................................................... 23Column Lock............................................... 23Power.......................................................... 78Storage, Vehicle...................................... 42, 243Storing Your Vehicle...................................... 243Supplemental Restraint System – Air Bag..... 162Surround View Camera.................................. 106Sway Control, Trailer...................................... 141Symbol Glossary................................................ 9Synthetic Engine Oil....................................... 205
T
Telescoping Steering Column.......................... 23Tip Start........................................................... 69Tire And Loading Information Placard........... 230Tire Markings................................................. 225Tire Safety Information.................................. 225Tire Service Kit.................. 187, 188, 189, 191Tires................................... 174, 233, 237, 242Aging (Life Of Tires)................................... 235Air Pressure............................................... 233
Chains...................................................... 240Changing.................................................. 180Compact Spare......................................... 237General Information........................ 233, 237High Speed............................................... 234Inflation Pressure..................................... 233Jacking..................................................... 180Life Of Tires.............................................. 235Load Capacity........................................... 230Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)..63, 151Quality Grading......................................... 242Radial....................................................... 234Replacement............................................ 236Rotation.................................................... 241Safety.............................................. 225, 233Sizes......................................................... 226Snow Tires................................................ 237Spare Tires...................................... 237, 238Spinning................................................... 235Trailer Towing........................................... 114Tread Wear Indicators.............................. 235Wheel Nut Torque..................................... 247To Open Hood.................................................. 49Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight...................... 113Towing................................................. 110, 196Disabled Vehicle....................................... 196Guide........................................................ 113
Recreational............................................. 116Weight...................................................... 113Towing Behind A Motorhome........................ 116Traction......................................................... 117Traction Control............................................ 141Traffic Sign Assist.............................................91Trailer Sway Control (TSC)............................. 141Trailer Towing................................................ 110Hitches..................................................... 112Minimum Requirements........................... 113Tips........................................................... 115Trailer And Tongue Weight........................ 113Wiring....................................................... 115Trailer Towing Guide..................................... 113Trailer Weight................................................ 113Transmission Automatic.......................................... 73, 212Fluid.......................................................... 252Maintenance............................................ 212Transmission Fault Warning Light....................61Transporting Pets.......................................... 173Tread Wear Indicators................................... 235
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