
5
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
HAZARD WARNING FLASHERS ..................................... 199
ASSIST AND SOS MIRROR — IF EQUIPPED .................. 199
JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING ...................................... 202 Preparations For Jacking .......................................... 202
Jack Location/Spare Tire Stowage ......................... 202Jacking And Changing A Tire ................................... 203
TIRE SERVICE KIT — IF EQUIPPED ................................. 206 Alternate Tire Service Kit — If Equipped .................. 211
JUMP STARTING .............................................................. 216 Preparations For Jump Start .................................... 216
Jump Starting Procedure .......................................... 217
IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS ........................................ 218
MANUAL PARK RELEASE–8–SPEED
TRANSMISSION ............................................................... 218
FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE............................................ 220
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE ..................................... 221 All Wheel Drive (AWD) Models — If Equipped.......... 222
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Models ............................. 222
ENHANCED ACCIDENT RESPONSE
SYSTEM (EARS) ............................................................... 222
EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR) ..................................... 222
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULED SERVICING ................................................ 223 3.6L And 5.7L Engines ............................................ 223
ENGINE COMPARTMENT ................................................ 228 3.6L Engine .............................................................. 228
5.7L Engine .............................................................. 229
Checking Oil Level .................................................... 230
Adding Washer Fluid................................................. 230Maintenance-Free Battery ....................................... 231
Pressure Washing ..................................................... 231
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE ................................................. 231 Engine Oil ................................................................. 231Engine Oil Filter ......................................................... 233Engine Air Cleaner Filter ........................................... 233Air Conditioner Maintenance ................................... 234Accessory Drive Belt Inspection............................... 235
Body Lubrication ....................................................... 235
Windshield Wiper Blades ......................................... 236
Exhaust System ........................................................ 237Cooling System ......................................................... 237Brake System ........................................................... 240
Clutch Hydraulic System —
Manual Transmission (If Equipped) ........................ 240
Manual Transmission — If Equipped ....................... 240
Automatic Transmission — If Equipped ................... 241
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) — If Equipped ...................... 241Rear Axle ................................................................... 241
Fuses ......................................................................... 242
Bulb Replacement .................................................... 250 TIRES ..................................................................................253
Tire Safety Information ............................................. 253
Tires — General Information ..................................... 261
Tire Types ................................................................... 264Spare Tires — If Equipped ......................................... 264
Wheel And Wheel Trim Care ..................................... 266
Snow Traction Devices ............................................. 267
Tire Rotation Recommendations ............................. 268
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM
TIRE QUALITY GRADES ................................................... 268 Treadwear .................................................................. 268
Traction Grades ......................................................... 269
Temperature Grades ................................................. 269
VEHICLE STORAGE ...........................................................269
BODYWORK ......................................................................270 Protection From Atmospheric Agents ...................... 270
Body And Underbody Maintenance.......................... 270
Preserving The Bodywork ......................................... 270
INTERIORS ........................................................................ 271 Seats And Fabric Parts.............................................. 271Plastic And Coated Parts .......................................... 271
Leather Surfaces ....................................................... 272
Glass Surfaces .......................................................... 272
23_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 5

74STARTING AND OPERATING
IF ENGINE FAILS TO START
If the engine fails to start after you have followed the
“Normal Starting” and the vehicle has not experienced an
extended park condition as defined previously, it may be
flooded. Push the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor
and hold it there. Crank the engine for no more than
10 seconds. This should clear any excess fuel in case the
engine is flooded. Leave the ignition key in the ON/RUN
position, release the accelerator pedal and repeat the
“Normal Starting” procedure.
COLD WEATHER OPERATION
(BELOW –22°F OR −30°C)
To ensure reliable starting at these temperatures, use of
an externally powered electric engine block heater
(available from an authorized dealer) is recommended.
AFTER STARTING
The idle speed is controlled automatically, and it will
decrease as the engine warms up.
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
Úpage 278.
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 inter
-
preted as an indication of difficulty. Please check your oil
level with the engine oil indicator 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.
WARNING!
Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into the
throttle body air inlet opening in an attempt to start
the vehicle. This could result in flash fire causing
serious personal injury.
Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get it
started. Vehicles equipped with an automatic trans -
mission cannot be started this way. Unburned fuel
could enter the catalytic converter and once the
engine has started, ignite and damage the converter
and vehicle.
If the vehicle has a discharged battery, booster
cables may be used to obtain a start from a booster
battery or the battery in another vehicle. This type of
start can be dangerous if done improperly
Úpage 216.
CAUTION!
To prevent damage to the starter, do not continuously
crank the engine for more than 10 seconds at a time.
Wait 10 to 15 seconds before trying again.
CAUTION!
Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral Oil in
the engine or damage may result.
23_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 74

230SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
CHECKING OIL LEVELTo ensure 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 ten minutes after a fully
warmed up engine is shut off.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level ground will
improve the accuracy of the oil level readings.
There are four possible dipstick types:
Crosshatched zone.
Crosshatched zone marked SAFE.
Crosshatched zone marked with MIN at the low end of
the range and MAX at the high end of the range.
Crosshatched zone marked with dimples at the MIN
and the MAX ends of the range.
NOTE:Always maintain the oil level within the crosshatch
markings on the dipstick.
Adding 1 qt (1 L) of oil when the reading is at the low end
of the dipstick range will raise the oil level to the high end
of the range marking.
ADDING WASHER FLUID
The windshield washer fluid reservoir is located in the
front of the engine compartment. Be sure to check the
fluid level at regular intervals. Fill the reservoir with
windshield washer solvent (not radiator antifreeze) and
operate the system for a few seconds to flush out the
residual water.
When refilling the washer fluid reservoir, apply some
washer fluid to a cloth or towel and wipe the wiper blades
clean. This will help blade performance.
To prevent freeze-up of your windshield washer system in
cold weather, select a solution or mixture that meets or
exceeds the temperature range of your climate. This rating
information can be found on most washer fluid containers.
The fluid reservoir will hold nearly 1 Gallon (4 Liters) of
washer fluid when the message “Low Washer Fluid”
appears in the instrument cluster.WARNING!
Never smoke while working in the engine compart -
ment: gas and flammable vapors may be present,
with the risk of fire.
Be very careful when working in the engine compart -
ment when the engine is hot: you may get burned. Do
not get too close to the radiator cooling fan: the elec -
tric fan may start; danger of injury. Scarves, ties and
other loose clothing might be pulled by moving parts.
CAUTION!
Be careful not to confuse the various types of fluids
while topping up: they are not compatible with each
other! Topping up with an unsuitable fluid could
severely damage your car.
The oil level must never exceed the MAX mark.
Always top up using engine oil of the same specifica -
tions as what is already in the engine.
If the engine oil is being topped up, wait for the
engine to cool down before loosening the filler cap,
particularly for vehicles with aluminum caps (if
equipped). WARNING: risk of burns!
Overfilling or underfilling the crankcase will cause
aeration or loss of oil pressure. This could damage
your engine.
CAUTION!
Overfilling or underfilling the crankcase will cause
aeration or loss of oil pressure. This could damage your
engine.
WARNING!
Commercially available windshield washer solvents are
flammable. They could ignite and burn you. Care must
be exercised when filling or working around the washer
solution.
23_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 230

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE231
MAINTENANCE-FREE BATTERY
Your vehicle is equipped with a maintenance-free battery.
Water will never have to be added, and periodic
maintenance is not required.
NOTE:The battery is stored under an access cover in the trunk.
Remote battery terminals are located in the engine
compartment for jump starting
Úpage 216.
PRESSURE WASHING
Cleaning the engine compartment with a high pressure
washer is not recommended.
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
An authorized dealer has the qualified service personnel,
special tools, and equipment to perform all service
operations in an expert manner. Service Manuals are available which include detailed
service information for your vehicle. Refer to these Service
Manuals before attempting any procedure yourself.
NOTE:Intentional tampering with emissions control systems may
void your warranty and could result in civil penalties being
assessed against you.
ENGINE OIL
Engine Oil Selection
Use only the manufacturer's recommended fluids Úpage 278.
NOTE:Hemi engines at times can tick right after startup and then
quiet down after approximately 30 seconds. This is normal
and will not harm the engine. This characteristic can be
caused by short drive cycles: for example, if the vehicle is
started then shut off after driving a short distance. Upon
restarting, you may experience a ticking sound. Other
causes could be if the vehicle is unused for an extended
period of time, incorrect oil, extended oil changes or
extended idling. If the engine continues to tick or if the
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) comes on, see the
nearest authorized dealer.
WARNING!
Battery fluid is a corrosive acid solution and can burn
or even blind you. Do not allow battery fluid to
contact your eyes, skin, or clothing. Do not lean over
a battery when attaching clamps. If acid splashes in
eyes or on skin, flush the area immediately with large
amounts of water
Úpage 216.
Battery gas is flammable and explosive. Keep flame
or sparks away from the battery. Do not use a
booster battery or any other booster source with an
output greater than 12 Volts. Do not allow cable
clamps to touch each other.
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.
The battery in this vehicle has a vent hose that
should not be disconnected and should only be
replaced with a battery of the same type (vented).
CAUTION!
It is essential when replacing the cables on the
battery that the positive cable is attached to the posi -
tive post and the negative cable is attached to the
negative post. Battery posts are marked positive (+)
and negative (-) and are identified on the battery
case. Cable clamps should be tight on the terminal
posts and free of corrosion.
If a “fast charger” is used while the battery is in the
vehicle, disconnect both vehicle battery cables
before connecting the charger to the battery. Do not
use a “fast charger” to provide starting voltage.
CAUTION!
Precautions have been taken to safeguard all parts and
connections however, the pressures generated by these
machines is such that complete protection against
water ingress cannot be guaranteed.
WARNING!
You can be badly injured working on or around a motor
vehicle. Only do service work for which you have the
knowledge and the proper equipment. If you have any
doubt about your ability to perform a service job, take
your vehicle to a competent mechanic.
8
23_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 231

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE233
3. Using water and mild detergent, clean the following
locations:
The water drain slot located at the front forward
edge of the Shaker assembly.
The seals attached to the scoop and air box.
Lower water drains located in the lower Shaker
assembly and air box as well as the hood interface
areas for the seals. Apply Mopar® Leather,
Rubber & Vinyl Protectant after cleaning the seals.
4. Reinstall Shaker assembly.
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 an authorized dealer, service
station or governmental agency for advice on how and
where used oil and oil filters can be safely discarded in
your area.
ENGINE OIL FILTER
The engine oil filter should be replaced with a new filter at
every engine oil change.
Engine Oil Filter Selection
A full-flow type disposable oil filter should be used for
replacement. The quality of replacement filters varies
considerably. Only high quality Mopar® certified filters
should be used. If a Mopar® Engine Oil Filter is
unavailable, only use filters that meet or exceed
SAE/USCAR-36 Filter Performance Requirements.
ENGINE AIR CLEANER FILTER
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 224.
NOTE:Be sure to follow the “Severe Duty Conditions” mainte -
nance interval if applicable. Engine Air Cleaner Filter Selection
The quality of replacement filters varies considerably. Only
high quality Mopar® certified filters should be used.
T/A Air Filter Maintenance — If Equipped
Clean Engine Air Filter
T/A air filters are made of a unique, washable material.
Follow the recommended service interval as for non-T/A
air filters, substituting a cleaning for replacement.
Cleaning your engine air filter with the recommended
Mopar® Performance Air Filter Service Kit is not required
if you can still see any part of the wire screen on the entire
air filter regardless of how dirty it may appear. When any
part of the wire screen is no longer visible on the air filter,
that is an indication it is time to clean the air filter.
For cleaning instructions see steps 1-7 from the Shaker
Hood Air Filter Cleaning section
Úpage 232.
Unique for T/A, using the Mopar® Performance Air Filter
Service Kit, spray oil evenly along the crown of each filter
pleat holding the nozzle about 3 inches (76 mm) away
from the air filter. One spray per 2 square inches
(1,290 square mm) of air filter. With one complete coat of
oil, let it wick (saturate) for about 20 minutes, and if
required touch up any light areas on either side of the
filter.
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 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
personal injury.
8
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240SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
BRAKE SYSTEM
In order to ensure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically
Úpage 224.
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
performing underhood services.
Clean the top of the master cylinder area before removing
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 may
cause leaking in the system.
Add enough fluid to bring the level up to the requirements
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 by the
manufacturer, and has been kept in a tightly closed
container to avoid contamination from foreign matter or
moisture
Úpage 278.
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
Úpage 278.
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
Úpage 278.
Change Transmission Fluid
If contaminated with water, change the fluid immediately.
See an authorized dealer for service.
For the proper maintenance intervals
Úpage 224.
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 Úpage 278. Using the wrong type of brake fluid can
severely damage your brake system 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 mois -
ture, 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 contaminate
the brake fluid. Brake seal components could be
damaged, causing partial or complete brake failure.
This could result in a collision.
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
Úpage 278.
23_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 240

272SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster
Lenses
The lenses in front of the instruments in this vehicle are
molded in clear plastic. When cleaning the lenses, care
must be taken to avoid scratching the plastic.
Clean with a wet soft cloth. A mild soap solution may be
used, but do not use high alcohol content or abrasive
cleaners. If soap is used, wipe clean with a clean damp
cloth. Dry with a soft cloth.
LEATHER SURFACES
Mopar® Total Clean is specifically recommended for
leather upholstery. Your leather upholstery can be best preserved by regular
cleaning with a damp soft cloth. Small particles of dirt can
act as an abrasive and damage the leather upholstery and
should be removed promptly with a damp cloth. Stubborn
soils can be removed easily with a soft cloth and Mopar®
Total Clean. Care should be taken to avoid soaking your
leather upholstery with any liquid. Please do not use
polishes, oils, cleaning fluids, solvents, detergents, or
ammonia-based cleaners to clean your leather upholstery.
NOTE:If equipped with light colored leather, it tends to show any
foreign material, dirt, and fabric dye transfer more so than
darker colors. The leather is designed for easy cleaning,
and the manufacturer recommends Mopar® total care
leather cleaner applied on a cloth to clean the leather
seats as needed.
GLASS SURFACES
All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a regular basis
with Mopar® Glass Cleaner, or any commercial
household-type glass cleaner. Never use an abrasive type
cleaner. Use caution when cleaning the inside rear
window equipped with electric defrosters or windows
equipped with radio antennas. Do not use scrapers or
other sharp instruments that may scratch the elements.
When cleaning the rearview mirror, spray cleaner on the
towel or cloth that you are using. Do not spray cleaner
directly on the mirror.
CAUTION!
Do not use alcohol and alcohol-based and/or
ketone-based cleaning products to clean leather
upholstery, as damage to the upholstery may result.
23_LA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 272