SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE257
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 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.
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 being driven under a Run Flat
mode 14 psi (96 kPa) condition, please replace the
TPMS sensor as it is not designed to be reused.
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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258SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
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 Úpage 168.
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 218.
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 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.
NOTE:Wheel Valve Stem must be replaced as well when
installing new tires due to wear and tear in existing
tires.
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 — Tread Wear IndicatorsWARNING!
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.
23_VF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 258
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE259
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
using 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 Ú page 250.
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 unpre
-
dictable 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 over -
loading 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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287
Lights
............................................................. 191Air Bag.......................................65, 178, 190Brake Assist Warning................................ 155Brake Warning............................................ 66Bulb Replacement..................................... 244Collision Warning................................. 70, 72Cruise.......................................................... 72Daytime Running......................................... 33Dimmer Switch, Headlight.................... 33, 34Electronic Stability Program(ESP) Indicator.................................. 67, 69, 155Exterior............................................... 33, 191Fuel Cutoff Failure....................................... 72Hazard Warning Flasher............................ 193Headlights................................................... 33High Beam.................................................. 34Illuminated Entry......................................... 38Instrument Cluster...................................... 67Interior........................................................ 36Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine)......... 69Park...................................................... 34, 73Passing........................................................ 34Rear Cargo Door Open Warning Light.......... 68Seat Belt Reminder..................................... 68Security Alarm............................................. 68Service...................................................... 244Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)............... 168Tow Haul..................................................... 72
TowingHookBreakdown............................... 71Traction Control........................................ 155Turn Signals.......................................33, 191Warning Instrument Cluster Descriptions.... 67Loading Vehicle................................... 123, 124Capacities................................................. 124Tires......................................................... 253LocksAutomatic Door..................................... 21, 23Low Tire Pressure System............................. 168Lubrication, Body.......................................... 231Lug Nuts/Bolts.............................................. 269
M
Maintenance Free Battery............................ 227Maintenance Schedule................................. 221Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine)..... 69ManualService..................................................... 279Methanol...................................................... 271Mirrors............................................................. 30Electric Remote........................................... 32Exterior Folding............................................ 31Heated......................................................... 33Outside........................................................ 31Rearview.............................................30, 193Modifications/AlterationsVehicle........................................................... 8Monitor, Tire Pressure System...................... 168Mopar Parts.................................................. 278
MP3 Control.....................................................45Multi-Function Control Lever............................33
N
New Vehicle Break-In Period............................78
O
Occupant Restraints..................................... 170Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel)...................... 270Oil Change Indicator.........................................57Reset...........................................................57Oil Filter, Change........................................... 228Oil Filter, Selection........................................ 228Oil Pressure Light.............................................68Oil, Engine............................................ 228, 273Capacity.................................................... 273Checking................................................... 226Dipstick..................................................... 226Disposal.................................................... 228Filter......................................................... 228Filter Disposal........................................... 228Identification Logo.................................... 228Materials Added To................................... 228Pressure Warning Light................................68Recommendation............................ 228, 273Synthetic................................................... 228Viscosity.................................................... 273Onboard Diagnostic System.............................74Operating Precautions.....................................74
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289
Sentry Key (Immobilizer)
.................................. 16Service Assistance......................................... 275Service Contract............................................ 277Service Manuals............................................ 279Settings Personal.................................................... 134Shift Lever Override....................................... 217Shoulder Belts............................................... 172Side Distance Warning.................................. 110Signals, Turn.................................................. 191Snow Chains (Tire Chains)............................. 263Snow Tires..................................................... 260Spare Tires.......................................... 260, 261Speed Limiter, Active....................................... 86Starting............................................................ 76Automatic Transmission.............................. 76Button......................................................... 16Cold Weather.............................................. 76Engine Fails To Start................................... 77Steering........................................................... 23Column Lock............................................... 23Power.......................................................... 85Storage, Vehicle...................................... 43, 265Storing Your Vehicle...................................... 265Supplemental Restraint System – Air Bag..... 179Surround View Camera.................................. 120Sway Control, Trailer...................................... 157Symbol Glossary................................................ 9Synthetic Engine Oil....................................... 228
T
Telescoping Steering Column.......................... 23Tip Start........................................................... 76Tire And Loading Information Placard........... 253Tire Markings................................................ 249Tire Safety Information................................. 249Tire Service
Kit................... 203, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213
Tire Service Kit — If Equipped
S
................ 203Tires...................................191, 256, 260, 264Aging (Life Of Tires).................................. 258Air Pressure.............................................. 256Chains...................................................... 263Changing.................................................. 196Compact Spare......................................... 260General Information........................ 256, 260High Speed............................................... 257Inflation Pressure..................................... 256Jacking..................................................... 196Life Of Tires.............................................. 258Load Capacity........................................... 253Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)..70, 168Quality Grading......................................... 264Radial....................................................... 257Replacement............................................ 259Rotation.................................................... 264Safety.............................................. 249, 256
Sizes......................................................... 250Snow Tires................................................ 260Spare Tires...................................... 260, 261Spinning................................................... 258Trailer Towing........................................... 128Tread Wear Indicators.............................. 258Wheel Nut Torque..................................... 269To Open Hood..................................................50Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight...................... 127Towing.................................................. 124, 219Disabled Vehicle....................................... 219Guide........................................................ 126Recreational............................................. 130Weight...................................................... 126Towing Behind A Motorhome........................ 130Traction......................................................... 131Traction Control............................................ 156Traffic Sign Assist.............................................98Trailer Sway Control (TSC)............................. 157Trailer Towing................................................ 124Hitches..................................................... 126Minimum Requirements........................... 127Tips........................................................... 130Trailer And Tongue Weight........................ 127Wiring....................................................... 129Trailer Towing Guide..................................... 126Trailer Weight................................................ 12611
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