MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS

  1. 2.4L Engine 223

  2. 4.0L Engine 224

  3. Onboard Diagnostic System OBD II 225

  4. Emissions Inspection And

Maintenance Programs 226

  1. Replacement Parts 227

  2. Dealer Service 227

  3. Maintenance Procedures 228


  1. Engine Oil 228

  2. Drive Belts Check Condition And Tension . . 231

  3. Spark Plugs 232

  4. Catalytic Converter 232


  1. Engine Timing Belt 2.4L Engine 233

  2. Ignition Wiring System 2.4L Engine 233

  3. Crankcase Emission Control System 234

  4. Fuel Filter 234

  5. Engine Air Cleaner Filter 234

  6. Maintenance-Free Battery 234

  7. Air Conditioner Maintenance 235

  8. Power Steering Fluid Check 236

  9. Driveline And Steering Component
    Lubrication 237

  10. Body Lubrication 237

  11. Windshield Wiper Blades 237

222 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 

  1. Windshield Washers 238

  2. Exhaust System 238

  3. Cooling System 239

  4. Hoses And Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses 242

  5. Brake System 243

  6. Automatic Transmission 245

  7. Hydraulic Clutch Fluid

Manual Transmission 246

  1. Manual Transmission 246

  2. Transfer Case 247

  3. Front/Rear Axle Fluid 248

  4. Appearance Care And Protection

From Corrosion 248

Fuse Panel 254

  1. Interior Fuses 254

  2. Underhood Fuses

(Power Distribution Center) 256

  1. Vehicle Storage 256

  2. Replacement Bulbs If Equipped 257

  3. Fluid Capacities 258

I Recommended Fluids, Lubricants And

Genuine Parts 259

  1. Engine 259

  2. Chassis 260

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 223

224 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 4.0L ENGINE

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 225

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM OBD II

Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated onboard diagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitors the performance of the emissions, engine, and automatic transmission control systems. When these systems are operating properly, your vehicle will provide excellent performance and fuel economy, as well as engine emis­sions well within current government regulations.

If any of these systems require service, the OBD II system will turn on the "Malfunction Indicator Light." It will also store diagnostic codes and other information to assist your service technician in making repairs. Al­though your vehicle will usually be drivable and not need towing, see your dealer for service as soon as possible.

CAUTION!

  1. Prolonged driving with the "Malfunction Indica­
    tor Light" on could cause further damage to the
    emission control system. It could also affect fuel
    economy and driveability. The vehicle must be
    serviced before any emissions tests can be per­
    formed.

  2. If the "Malfunction Indicator Light" is flashing
    while the engine is running, severe catalytic con­
    verter damage and power loss will soon occur.
    Immediate service is required.

226 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS

In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass an inspection of your vehicle’s emissions control system. Failure to pass could prevent vehicle registration.

For states which have an I/M (Inspection and Maintenance) requirement, this check verifies the following: the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) is functioning and is not on when the engine is running, and that the OBD (On Board Diagnostic) system is ready for testing.

Normally, the OBD system will be ready. The OBD system may not be ready if your vehicle was recently serviced, if you recently had a dead battery, or a battery replacement. If the OBD system should be determined not ready for the I/M test, your vehicle may fail the test.

Your vehicle has a simple ignition key actuated test which you can use prior to going to the test station. To check if your vehicle’s OBD system is ready, you must do the following:

1. Insert your ignition key into the ignition switch.


  1. Turn the ignition to the ON position, but do not crank
    or start the engine.

  2. If you crank or start the engine, you will have to start
    this test over.

  3. As soon as you turn your key to the ON position, you
    will see your MIL symbol come on as part of a normal
    bulb check.

  4. Approximately 15 seconds later, one of two things will
    happen:

a. The MIL will flash for about 10 seconds and then
return to being fully illuminated until you turn off
the ignition key or start the engine. This means that
your vehicle’s OBD system is not ready and you
should not proceed to the I/M station.

b. The MIL will not flash at all and will remain fully
illuminated until you turn off the ignition key or
start the engine. This means that your vehicle’s OBD
system is ready and you can proceed to the I/M
station.

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 227

If your OBD system is not ready, you should see your authorized dealer or repair facility. If your vehicle was recently serviced or had a battery failure or replacement, you may need to do nothing more than drive your vehicle as you normally would in order for your OBD system to update. A recheck with the above test routine may then indicate that the system is now ready.

Regardless of whether your vehicle’s OBD system is ready or not ready, if the MIL symbol is illuminated during normal vehicle operation, you should have your vehicle serviced before going to the I/M station. The I/M station can fail your vehicle because the MIL symbol is on with the engine running.

REPLACEMENT PARTS

Use of genuine Mopar® parts for normal/scheduled maintenance and repairs is highly recommended to in­sure the designed performance. Damage or failures caused by the use of non-Mopar® parts for maintenance and repairs will not be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.

DEALER SERVICE

Your 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 manuals before attempting any procedure yourself.

NOTE: Intentional tampering with emissions control systems can result in civil penalties being assessed against you.

228 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

You can be badly injured working on or around a motor vehicle. Do only that 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.

MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

The pages that follow contain the required maintenance services determined by the engineers who designed your vehicle.

Besides the maintenance items for which there are fixed maintenance intervals, there are other items that should operate satisfactorily without periodic maintenance. However, if a malfunction of these items does occur, it could adversely affect the engine or vehicle performance. These items should be inspected if a malfunction is observed or suspected.

Engine Oil

Checking Oil Level

To assure proper lubrication of your vehicle’s engine, 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 5 minutes after a fully warmed engine is shut off, or before starting the engine after it has sat overnight.

Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level ground will improve the accuracy of the oil level readings. Maintain the oil level between the ADD and SAFE markings on the dipstick. Adding 1 U.S. Quart (0.95L) of oil when the reading is at the ADD mark will result in a SAFE reading on these engines.

ENGINE OIL LEVEL DIPSTICK

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 229

CAUTION!

Overfilling or underfilling the crankcase will cause aeration or loss of oil pressure. This could damage your engine.

Change Engine Oil

Road conditions as well as your kind of driving affect the interval at which your oil should be changed. Check the following to determine if any apply to you:

  1. Day or night temperatures are below 32°F (0°C)

  2. Stop and go driving

  3. Extensive engine idling

  4. Driving in dusty conditions

  5. Short trip driving of less than 10 miles (16.2 km)


  1. More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high
    speeds during hot weather, above 90°F (32°C)

  2. Taxi, Police, or delivery service (commercial service)

  3. Trailer towing

  4. Off-road or desert driving

  5. If equipped for and operating with E-85 (ethanol) fuel

If ANY of these apply to you, then change your engine oil at every interval shown in schedule "B" of the "Mainte­nance Schedules" section of this manual.

If none of these apply to you, then change your engine oil at every interval shown on schedule "A" of the "Main­tenance Schedules" section of this manual

NOTE: Under no circumstances should oil change intervals exceed 6,000 miles (10 000 km) or 6 months whichever comes first.

230 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Engine Oil Selection

For best performance and maximum protection for all engines under all types of operating conditions, the manufacturer recommends engine oils that are API Cer­tified and meet the requirements of DaimlerChrysler Material Standard MS-6395.

American Petroleum Institute (API) Engine Oil Identification Symbol

This symbol means that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). The manufacturer only recommends API Certified engine oils.

Engine Oil Viscosity Chart

The proper SAE viscosity grade of engine oil should be selected based on the following recommendation and be within the operating temperature shown in the engine oil viscosity chart.

2.4L Engines

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 231

4.0L Engines Materials Added To Engine Oils

The manufacturer strongly recommends against the ad­dition of any additives (other than leak detection dyes) to engine oil. Engine oil is an engineered product and it’s performance may be impaired by supplemental addi­tives.

Disposing of Used Engine Oil

Care should be taken in disposing of used engine oil from your vehicle. Used oil, indiscriminately discarded, can present a problem to the environment. Contact your authorized dealer, service station, or governmental agency for advice on how and where used oil can be safely discarded in your area.

Engine Oil Filter

The engine oil filter should be replaced at every engine oil change.

Engine Oil Filter Selection

All of the manufacturer’s engines have a full-flow type disposable oil filter. Use a filter of this type for replace­ment. The quality of replacement filters varies consider­ably. Only high quality filters should be used to assure most efficient service. Mopar® engine oil filters are high quality oil filters and are recommended.

Drive Belts Check Condition and Tension

At the mileage shown in the appropriate "Maintenance Schedule," check all drive belts for condition and proper tension. Improper belt tension can cause belt slippage and failure.

232 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Inspect the drive belt for evidence of cuts, cracks, or glazing and replace them if there is any sign of damage which could result in belt failure. If adjustment is re­quired, adjust the belts according to the specifications and procedures shown in the Service Manual.

Special tools are required to properly measure tension and to restore belt tension to factory specifications. Also, check belt routing to make sure there is no interference between the belts and other engine components.

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs must fire properly to assure engine perfor­mance and emission control. New plugs should be in­stalled at the mileage specified in the appropriate main­tenance chart. The entire set should be replaced if there is any malfunction due to a faulty spark plug.

Refer to the "Vehicle Emission Control Information" label in the engine compartment for spark plug information.

Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter requires the use of unleaded fuel only. Leaded gasoline will destroy the effectiveness of the converter as an emission control device.

Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic con­verter will not require maintenance. However, it is im­portant to keep the engine properly tuned to assure proper catalyst operation and prevent possible catalyst damage.

CAUTION!

Damage to the catalytic converter can result if your vehicle is not kept in proper operating condition. In the event of engine malfunction, particularly involv­ing engine misfire or other apparent loss of perfor­mance, have your vehicle serviced promptly. Contin­ued operation of your vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause the converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to the converter and vehicle.

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 233

WARNING!

A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you park over materials that can burn. Such materials might be grass or leaves coming into contact with your ex­haust system. Do not park or operate your vehicle in areas where your exhaust system can contact any­thing that can burn.

In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning engine operation, a scorching odor may suggest severe and abnormal catalyst overheating. If this occurs, stop the vehicle, turn off the engine and allow it to cool. Service, including 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.


  1. Do not try to start the engine by pushing or towing the
    vehicle.

  2. Do not idle the engine with any spark plug wires
    disconnected or removed, such as when diagnostic
    testing.

  3. Do not idle the engine for prolonged periods during
    very rough idle or malfunctioning operating condi­
    tions.

  4. Do not allow vehicle to run out of fuel.

NOTE: Intentional tampering with emissions control systems can result in civil penalties being assessed against you.

Engine Timing Belt 2.4L Engine

Replace the engine timing belt at the intervals described in the appropriate maintenance schedule.

Ignition Wiring System 2.4L Engine

Replace the ignition cables at the intervals described in the appropriate maintenance schedule.

234 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE


Crankcase Emission Control System

Proper operation of this system depends on freedom from sticking or plugging due to deposits. As vehicle mileage builds up, the PCV valve and passages may accumulate deposits. If a valve is not working properly, replace it with a new valve. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CLEAN THE OLD PCV VALVE!

Check ventilation hose for indication of damage or plugging deposits. Replace if necessary.

Fuel Filter

A plugged fuel filter can cause hard starting or limit the speed at which a vehicle can be driven. Should an excessive amount of dirt accumulate in the fuel tank, frequent replacement of the fuel filter which is mounted in the fuel tank may be necessary.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter

Under normal driving conditions, replace the air filter at the intervals shown on "Maintenance Schedule A." If, however, you drive the vehicle frequently under dusty or severe conditions, the filter element should be inspected periodically and replaced if necessary at the intervals shown on "Maintenance Schedule B."

WARNING!

The air cleaner can provide protection in the case of engine backfire. Do not remove the air cleaner unless it is necessary for repair or maintenance. Make sure that no one is near the engine compart­ment before starting the vehicle with the air cleaner removed. Failure to do so can result in serious personal injury.

Maintenance-Free Battery

Your vehicle is equipped with a maintenance-free battery. You will never have to add water, nor is periodic main­tenance required.

WARNING!

Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories con­tain lead and lead compounds. Always wash hands after handling the battery.

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 235



CAUTION!

It is essential when replacing the cables on the battery that the positive cable is attached to the positive post and the negative cable is attached to the negative post. Battery posts are marked (+) positive and negative (-) and identified on the battery case. Also, if a "fast charger" is used while battery is in the vehicle, disconnect both vehicle battery cables be­fore connecting the charger to battery. Do not use a "fast charger" to provide starting voltage.

To determine the battery charge, check the battery test indicator (if equipped) on top of the battery. Refer to the illustration.

Air Conditioner Maintenance

For best possible performance, your air conditioner should be checked and serviced by an Authorized Dealer at the start of each warm season. This service should include cleaning of the condenser fins and a performance test. Drive belt tension should also be checked at this time.

236 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE


WARNING!


Use only refrigerants and compressor lubricants approved by the manufacturer for your air condi­tioning system. Some unapproved refrigerants are flammable and can explode, injuring you. Other unapproved refrigerants or lubricants can cause the system to fail, requiring costly repairs.

The air conditioning system contains refrigerant under high pressure. To avoid risk of personal injury or damage to the system, adding refrigerant or any repair requiring lines to be disconnected should be done by an experienced repairman.

NOTE: Air Conditioning systems found to be contami­nated with À/Ñ System Sealers, Stop Leak Products, Seal Conditioners, Compressor Oil, or Refrigerants not ap­proved by the manufacturer, voids the warranty for the Air Conditioning system.

Power Steering Fluid Check

Checking the power steering fluid level at a defined service interval is not required. The fluid should only be checked if a leak is suspected, abnormal noises are apparent, and/or the system is not functioning as antici­pated. Coordinate inspection efforts through a certified DaimlerChrysler Dealership."


Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling

R-134a Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydrofluorocar-bon (HFC) that is endorsed by the Environmental Pro­tection Agency and is an ozone-saving product. How­ever, the manufacturer recommends that air conditioning service be performed by dealers or other service facilities using recovery and recycling equipment.

WARNING!


Fluid level should be checked on a level surface with the engine off to prevent injury from moving parts, and to insure accurate fluid level reading. Do not overfill. Use only the manufacturer’s recommended fluid.

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 237

If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from all surfaces. Refer to Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts for correct fluid type.

Driveline And Steering Component Lubrication

U-joints (cardan joints) are sealed and do not require lubrication. Prop shafts, yokes, ball joints and other driveline and steering components may be provided with grease fittings for lubrication. Lubrication of these com­ponents at the intervals specified in the appropriate"Maintenance Schedule" in Section 8 is very important, particularly if your vehicle is subjected to off-road or other heavy-duty use. See your authorized dealer for complete service information.

Body Lubrication

Locks and all body pivot points, including such items as seat tracks, doors, tailgate and hood hinges, should be lubricated periodically to assure quiet, easy operation and to protect against rust and wear. Prior to the appli­cation of any lubricant, the parts concerned should be wiped clean to remove dust and grit; after lubricating excess oil and grease should be removed. Particular

attention should also be given to hood latching compo­nents to insure proper function. When performing other underhood services, the hood latch, release mechanism and safety catch should be cleaned and lubricated.

The external lock cylinders should be lubricated twice a year, preferably in the fall and spring. Apply a small amount of a high quality lubricant such as Mopar® Lock Cylinder Lubricant directly into the lock cylinder.

Windshield Wiper Blades

Clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades and the windshield periodically with a sponge or soft cloth and a mild non-abrasive cleaner. This will remove accumula­tions of salt or road film.

Operation of the wipers on dry glass for long periods may cause deterioration of the wiper blades. Always use washer fluid when using the wipers to remove salt or dirt from a dry windshield. Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or ice from the windshield. Keep the blade rubber out of contact with petroleum products such as engine oil, gasoline, etc.