Dodge 2005 Viper - Manual

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS WARNING! Any modifications or alterations to this vehiclecould seriously affect its roadworthiness and safetyand may lead to an accident resulting in seriousinjury or death. INTRODUCTION 7 1

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS 䡵 A Word About Your Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 ▫ Ignition Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 ▫ Key-In-Ignition Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 ▫ Power Accessory Delay Feature . . . . . . . . . . ...

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS The dealer that sold you your new Viper has the key codenumbers for your vehicle locks. These numbers can beused to order duplicate keys from your dealer or alocksmith. Ask your dealer for these numbers and keepthem in a safe place. Ignition Key Press clutch and insert the ign...

start the vehicle fully apply the parking brake, press theclutch pedal to the floor, place the gear selector inNEUTRAL, move the key to the ON position, and pressthe red ENGINE START button located on the instrumentpanel. To remove the key from the ignition press theclutch pedal to the floor, bring ...

will flash DOOR UNLOCKED every 2 seconds. Afterabout 40 seconds with the ignition off, the display willturn off. NOTE: If you attempt to lock the doors with the key in the ignition and the driver’s door open, the doors will notlock. Mechanical Release The driver’s door can be opened mechanically by ...

Automatic Door Locks The doors will lock automatically from outside the ve-hicle when vehicle speed reaches 18 miles per hour withthe ignition On and the DOOR UNLOCKED displayed inthe odometer will disappear. NOTE: If the vehicle is moving faster than 5 MPH, the inside and outside door handles are i...

To Lock the Doors: NOTE: To enable/disable the Lamp Flash, see proce- dure described above. Press and release the LOCK button on the transmitter.The horn will chirp once and the park and tail lights willblink to acknowledge that the door is locked and that thealarm system is armed. The horn chirp ca...

To Program Transmitters: This feature allows you to program transmitters in caseone is lost or an extra transmitter(s) is desired. Up to 4transmitters can be programmed to your vehicle. Toprogram another transmitter follow these steps: 1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position andset the pa...

Transmitter Battery Service The replacement battery number is 2016. This is a genericbattery, readily available at local retail stores. 1. Pry the transmitter halves apart with a coin or similarobject. 2. Remove and replace the batteries. 3. Reassemble the transmitter case and test operation. NOTE: ...

VEHICLE THEFT ALARM The system monitors the doors, trunk, hood, and ignitionfor unauthorized operation. Once the system has been armed, opening any door,trunk (with the ignition key), hood or turning the ignitionkey to any position will trigger an alarm. If something triggers the alarm, the system w...

4. The Security light will periodically flash, once every 6seconds, to show that the system is still armed. CAUTION! If the Security lamp flashes twice every 6 seconds,then the vehicle was tampered with! Entering the Trunk with the System Armed To enter the trunk with the system armed, the RemoteKey...

Security System Disarm There are two ways to disarm the system: 1. Driver door key cylinder: Insert the key in the cylinderlocated under the driver’s door mirror. This will disarmthe Vehicle Theft Alarm System and open the driver’sdoor. 2. Or, press the UNLOCK button on the Remote KeylessEntry trans...

Tamper Alert If the horn sounds 3 times when you unlock the vehicleusing the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter or key, thealarm has been activated. Check the vehicle for tamper-ing. NOTE: If the Security lamp flashes twice every 6 seconds, then the vehicle was tampered with. TRUNK SAFETY WARNING WARN...

Trunk Internal Emergency Release NOTE: As a security measure, a Trunk Internal Emer- gency Release lever is built into the trunk latchingmechanism. In the event of an individual being lockedinside the trunk, the trunk can simply be opened by pulling on the lever attached to the trunk latchingmechani...

NOTE: Windows cannot be driven up during accessory delay with a door open. NOTE: If the windows are completely closed, each respective window will drop slightly when either door isopened. The windows return to their full up positionwhen the door is again closed. This is necessary to clearthe seal wh...

Auto Down Feature Both windows have an auto down feature. Press thewindow switch to the second detent, release, and thewindow will go down automatically. Press the switch asecond time in either direction to stop the window. To open the window to a desired position, press and holdthe window switch in...

WARNING! Wearing a seat belt incorrectly is dangerous. Seatbelts are designed to go around the large bones ofyour body. These are the strongest parts of your bodyand can take the forces of a collision the best.Wearing your belt in the wrong place could makeyour injuries in a collision much worse. Yo...

3. Slide the latch plate up the webbing as far as necessaryto make the belt go around your lap. 4. When the belt is long enough to fit, insert the latchplate into the buckle until you hear a “click.” WARNING! A belt that is too loose will not protect you as well. Ina sudden stop you could move too f...

5. Position the lap belt across your thighs, below yourabdomen. To remove slack in the lap belt portion, pull upa little on the shoulder belt, as shown. 6. To loosen the lap belt if it is too tight, tilt the latch plateand pull on the lap belt. A snug belt reduces the risk ofsliding under the belt i...

WARNING! A twisted belt can’t do its job as well. In a collisionit could even cut into you. Be sure the belt is straight.If you can’t straighten a belt in your vehicle, take itto your dealer and have it fixed. 8. To release the belt, push the red button marked PRESSon the buckle. The belt will autom...

2. Start the engine and wait for the Seat Belt WarningLight to turn off. 3. Within 60 seconds of starting the vehicle, unbuckleand then re-buckle the driver’s seat belt at least threetimes within 10 seconds, ending with the seat beltbuckled. NOTE: Watch for the Seat Belt Warning Light to turn on whi...

NOTE: The anti-submarining belt and the shoulder belt are attached to eye bolts at designated locations andshould be removed from the vehicle when not in use. Thelap belts and straps can be stored behind or to the sidesof the seat after removal. Seat Belts and Pregnant Women We recommend that pregna...

Buckle the child into the seat exactly as the child seatmanufacturer’s directions tell you. The latch plate on thelap/shoulder belt will keep the belt tight. When your infant carrier or child seat is not in use, secureit with the seat belt or remove it from the vehicle. Don’tleave it loose in the ve...

system provides for the installation of the child restraintwithout using the vehicle seat belt. The passenger seathas an exclusive lower anchorage. These are round bars, located at the lower area of the seatback, one on each side of the passenger seat. You willeasily feel them if you run your finger...

WARNING! An incorrectly anchored tether strap could lead toincreased head motion and possible injury to thechild. Use only the anchor position directly behindthe child seat to secure a child restraint top tetherstrap. Installing Child Restraints Using the Vehicle Seatbelt The passenger side seat bel...

To convert the emergency locking mode to automaticlocking mode for seat belts equipped with automaticlocking retractors, grasp on the shoulder belt portion ofthe belt and pull all of the webbing out of the retractor. Byallowing some of the webbing to retract back into theretractor, you will hear a c...

in collisions where the airbags deploy, you need the seatbelts to keep you in the right position for the airbags toprotect you properly. Here are four simple steps you can take to minimize therisk of harm from a deploying airbag. 1. Infants in rear facing child safety seats designed for children up ...

How The Airbag System Works • A crash sensor in the occupant compartment deter-mines if a frontal impact is severe enough to requirethe airbag. The sensor will not detect side, roll over, orrear impacts. The crash sensor is connected to thediagnostic unit and to the airbag/inflator unit. • The Diagn...

WARNING! Do not put anything on or around the airbag coversor attempt to manually open them. You may damagethe airbags and you could be injured because theairbags are not there to protect you. These protectivecovers for the airbag cushions are designed to openonly when the airbags are inflating. • W...

front passenger as the airbags deploy and unfold. Theabrasions are similar to friction rope burns or thoseyou might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasiumfloor. They are not caused by contact with chemicals.They are not permanent and normally heal quickly.However, if you haven’t healed significantl...

because the infant has a medical condition whichmakes it necessary for the driver to be able to see theinfant, • is a child, age 1 to 12 who must ride in the front seatbecause there is no rear seat, because there is no rearseat position available, or because the child has amedical condition which ma...

NOTE: When the passenger airbag is turned off the airbag off light will illuminate To Shut Off the Passenger Airbag: • Place only the tip of the ignition key in the on/offswitch, turn the key clockwise, and remove the keyfrom the switch. This will shut off the passenger side airbag. The PASS AIRBAG ...

Maintaining Your Airbag System WARNING! • Modifications to any part of the airbag systemcould cause it to fail when you need it. You couldbe injured because the airbag is not there to protectyou. Do not modify the components or wiring,including adding any kind of badges or stickers tothe airbag cove...

Transporting Pets Deploying airbags could harm your pet. An unrestrainedpet will be thrown about and possibly injured, or injure apassenger during panic braking or in a collision. Pets should be restrained in pet harnesses or pet carriersthat are secured by seat belts. ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATION...

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS 䡵 Convertible Top Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 ▫ To Lower The Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 ▫ To Raise The Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 ▫ Convertible Top Boot Cover Installation–IfEquipped ....

CONVERTIBLE TOP OPERATION WARNING! The convertible top does not provide the structuralprotection that a reinforced metal roof does, and thefabric top cannot be expected to prevent the ejectionof the occupants of a vehicle in a collision. Thereforeit is important that all occupants wear their seat be...

To Lower the Top: 1. To lower the top, first ensure that the door windowsare lowered at least an inch. 2. Depress the button at the top of the latch upwards andthen pull the handle down and rearward, towards you.(See the picture shown) 3. Disengage the latch hook from the windshield rodmaking sure t...

6. While sitting inside the vehicle, hold onto the handlesand pull the top towards the windshield header. Push thelatch handle forward and engage the latch hook to thewindshield receiver rod. 7. Ensure the outboard locating pins are in their respec-tive receiving holes in the windshield header. Push...

engage the latch hook and close the latch. Several weeksof normal convertible top usage will reduce these efforts. Convertible Top Boot Cover Installation–IfEquipped 1. Open the trunk. 2. Lower the convertible top and make sure that theconvertible top latch handle is placed in the stowedposition. 3....

6. Tuck cover under leading edge of convertible top. 7. Clip tab under trunk lid stop and quarter panel flangeon outer edge on the passenger side. Tucking Boot Cover Attaching Passenger Side Tab UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 61 3

5. Fold the convertible top cover again. Place the coverinto the bag. Store the cover in the trunk or a dry securearea. CONSOLE FEATURES The front console has a removable ashtray, power outlet/cigarette lighter and power window switches. The center console compartment is equipped with acigarette lig...

MIRRORS Inside Day/Night Mirror Adjust the mirror to center on the view through the rearwindow. A pivot system allows for horizontal and verti-cal mirror adjustment. Annoying headlight glare can be reduced by moving thesmall control under the mirror to the night position(toward rear of vehicle). The...

Electric Remote Control Mirrors Both of the outside mirrors can be adjusted by using theremote controls mounted inside the driver’s door, belowthe door handle and power door switch. NOTE: Place the mirror selector switch in the center (neutral) position to prevent accidental movement of themirrors. ...

WARNING! Adjusting a seat while the vehicle is moving isdangerous. If you are driving, the sudden movementof the seat could cause you to lose control. You couldbe injured. Adjust any seat only while the vehicle isparked. Do not ride with the seatback reclined sothat the shoulder belt is no longer ri...

Reclining Seat The recliner control is on the side of the seat on thedoor-side. To recline, lean forward slightly before pullingthe lever, then lean back to the desired position, andrelease the lever. Lean forward and pull the lever toreturn the seatback to its original position. To Open And Close T...

Then push the safety catch handle located under the frontedge of the hood toward the right. Raise the front of thehood. NOTE: Assist props will raise the hood to a normal customer usage position. If greater access is required, thehood may be pushed up at the front, raising the hoodbeyond the initial...

WARNING! If the hood is not fully latched, it could open whenthe vehicle is moving and block your forward vision.Be sure the hood latches are fully latched beforedriving. LIGHTS Courtesy/Reading Lights These lights, located under the rearview mirror, come onwhenever a door is opened or the illuminat...

To change the brightness of the instrument panel lights,rotate the center portion of the Multi-Function ControlLever up or down. Daytime Running Lights The fog lights will come on as Daytime Running Lightswhenever the ignition switch is on, the headlights are off,and the parking brake is off. The he...

If the ignition switch is turned to any position other thanthe Off position at any time during the 3 minute delayperiod the battery saver feature will be disabled. Fog Lights The front fog light switch is on the Multi-FunctionControl Lever. To activate the front fog lights, turnon the parking lights...

If either light remains on and does not flash, or there is avery fast flash rate, check for a defective outside lightbulb. If an indicator fails to light when the lever ismoved, it would suggest that the fuse or indicator bulb isdefective. Highbeam/Lowbeam Select Switch Pull the Multi-Function Contr...

WARNING! Tilting the steering column while the vehicle ismoving is dangerous. Without a stable steering col-umn, you could lose control of the vehicle and havean accident. Adjust the column only while the ve-hicle is stopped. Be sure it is locked before driving. ADJUSTABLE PEDALS Your Viper is equip...

To adjust the pedals: • Adjust the seat to a comfortable driving position. • Adjust the pedals to a position that allows full pedaltravel. • It may be necessary to make further small adjustmentsto find the best possible seat/pedal position. WARNING! Do not adjust the pedals while the vehicle is movi...

To adjust the left foot rest: • Loosen the nut on the pedal using a 13 mm socket. • Slide the pedal fore, aft and/or rotate up or down tofind a comfortable position. • Retighten the nut, being careful not to overtighten. WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS The wipers and washers are operated by a switchin...

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL CONTENTS 䡵 Instrument Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 䡵 Instrument Cluster Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86 ▫ Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86 ▫ Turn Signal Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....

INSTRUMENT PANEL FEATURES UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 85 4

Turn Signal Indicators The arrows will flash in unison with the correspondingexterior turn signal when using the signal lever. Hazard Indicator Both turn signal arrows will flash in unison with all frontand rear turn signals when the hazard warning switch isused. NOTE: Leaving the hazard flashers on...

Trunk Ajar Light This light indicates that the trunk is not latched. Engine Coolant Temperature Light A red LED light on the Coolant Temperaturegauge will illuminate to warn of an overheatedengine coolant condition. Low Oil Pressure Light A red LED light on the Oil Pressure gauge willilluminate to i...

This gauge does not indicate the amount of oil in theengine. The engine oil level must be checked under thehood. Check the level often during severe usage. Fuel Gauge This gauge shows the amount of fuel in the gastank. The reaction time of the gauge has beenslowed to avoid needle fluctuation during ...

FM Reception Because FM transmission is based on frequency varia-tions, interference that consists of amplitude variationscan be filtered out, leaving the reception relatively clear,which is the major feature of FM radio. NOTE: On vehicles so equipped the radio, steering wheel radio controls and 6 d...

Radio Operation Power/Volume Control Press the PWR/VOL control to turn the radio on. Turnthe volume control clockwise to increase the volume. NOTE: Power to operate the radio is controlled by the ignition switch. It must be in the ON or ACC position tooperate the radio. Mode Press the MODE button re...

Time Button Press the TIME button to change the display betweenradio frequency and time. General Information This radio complies with Part 15 of FCC rules and withRSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to thefollowing conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, 2. This d...

If you insert a disc with the ignition ON and the radioON, the unit will switch from radio to CD mode andbegin to play when you insert the disc. The display willshow the disc number, the track number, and index timein minutes and seconds. Play will begin at the start oftrack 1. LOAD/ EJT — Load Pres...

CD/DVD DISC MAINTENANCE To keep the CD/DVD discs in good condition, take thefollowing precautions: 1. Handle the disc by its edge; avoid touching thesurface. 2. If the disc is stained, clean the surface with a soft cloth,wiping from center to edge. 3. Do not apply paper, paper CD labels, or tape to ...

VENTILATION When the ventilation mode is selected, outside air comesthrough the panel outlets. Air will enter the vehicle withor without the blower in operation. CLIMATE CONTROLS The Air Conditioning System allows you to balance thetemperature, amount and direction of the air circulatingthroughout t...

The controls are as follows: Fan Control Use this control to regulate theamount of air forced through the sys-tem in any mode you select. Turn thecontrol clockwise to increase fanspeed. Turn the control to the O — Offposition to shut off the fan and toprevent any outside air from entering the vehicl...

shows that the Air Conditioning compressor is on. Con-ditioned air is now directed through the outlets selected.Pushing the button a second time turns the compressorOFF. Slight changes in engine speed or power may be noticedwhen the compressor is on. This is a normal occurrencesince the compressor w...

STARTING AND OPERATING CONTENTS 䡵 Starting Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 ▫ If Engine Fails To Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 ▫ After Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 䡵 Transmission Shifting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11...

STARTING PROCEDURES CAUTION! Long periods of engine idling, especially at highengine speeds, can cause excessive exhaust tempera-tures which can damage your vehicle. Do not leaveyour vehicle unattended with the engine running. WARNING! Do not leave animals or children inside parkedvehicles in hot we...

instrument panel and release when the engine starts. Ifthe engine has not started within 3 seconds, slightlydepress the accelerator pedal while continuing to crank.If the engine fails to start within 10 seconds, turn the keyto the “OFF” position, wait 5 seconds, then repeat thenormal starting proced...

WARNING! Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get itstarted. Unburned fuel could enter the catalyticconverter and once the engine has started, ignite anddamage the converter and vehicle. If the vehicle hasa discharged battery, booster cables may be used toobtain a start from a booster batte...

After Starting The idle speed will automatically decrease as the enginewarms up. WARNING! Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into thethrottle body air inlet opening in an attempt to startthe vehicle. This could result in flash fire causingserious personal injury. TRANSMISSION SHIFTING NOTE: T...

Recommended Shift Speeds To use your manual transmission for fuel economy itshould be upshifted as listed below. Shift at the vehiclespeeds listed for acceleration. Earlier upshifts duringcruise conditions (relatively steady speeds) will result inincreased fuel economy, and may be used as indicated....

To maintain a safe speed and prolong brake life, down-shift to maintain a safe speed when descending a steepgrade. WARNING! Skipping more than one gear while downshifting,could cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Youcould have an accident. CAUTION! If you skip more than one gear while downshi...

Before leaving the vehicle, make sure you fully apply theparking brake. Place the transmission in REVERSE. Fail-ure to do so may cause the vehicle to roll and causedamage or injury. As an added precaution, turn the front wheels toward thecurb on a downhill grade and away from the curb on anuphill gr...

NOTE: During severe braking conditions, a pulsing sensation may occur and a clicking noise will be heard.This is normal, indicating that the Anti-Lock BrakeSystem is functioning. WARNING! To use your brakes and accelerator more safely, followthese tips: • Do not “ride” the brakes by resting your foo...

In the event power assist is lost for any reason (forexample, repeated brake applications with the engineoff), the brakes will still function. The effort required tobrake the vehicle will be much greater than that requiredwith the power system operating. If either the front or rear hydraulic system ...

TIRE SAFETY INFORMATION Tire Markings NOTE: • P(Passenger)-Metric tire sizing is based on U.S. designstandards. P-Metric tires have the letter “P” moldedinto the sidewall preceding the size designation. Ex-ample: P215/65R15 95H. • European Metric tire sizing is based on Europeandesign standards. Tir...

Tire Sizing Chart EXAMPLE: Size Designation: P = Passenger car tire size based on U.S. design standards ⴖ ....blank.... ⴖ = Passenger car tire based on European design standards LT = Light Truck tire based on U.S. design standards T = Temporary Spare tire 31 = Overall Diameter in Inches (in) 215 = S...

EXAMPLE: Service Description: 95 = Load Index —A numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can carry. H = Speed Symbol —A symbol indicating the range of speeds at which a tire can carry a load correspondingto its load index under certain operating conditions.—The maximum speed correspon...

Tire Identification Number (TIN) The TIN may be found on one or both sides of the tirehowever the date code may only be on one side. Tireswith white sidewalls will have the full TIN includingdate code located on the white sidewall side of the tire. Look for the TIN on the outboard side of black side...

Tire Loading and Tire Pressure Tire Placard Location NOTE: The proper cold tire inflation pressure for pas- senger cars is listed on either the face of the driver’s dooror the driver’s side “B” pillar. For vehicles other thanpassenger cars, the cold tire inflation pressures are listedon either the “...

Tire and Loading Information Placard This placard tells you important information about the,1) number of people that can be carried in the vehicle2) the total weight your vehicle can carry3) the tire size designed for your vehicle 4) the cold tire inflation pressures for the front, rearand spare tir...

2. Economy— Improper inflation pressures can cause uneven wearpatterns to develop across the tire tread. These abnormalwear patterns will reduce tread life resulting in a need forearlier tire replacement. Underinflation also increases tirerolling resistance and results in higher fuel consumption. 3....

Tire Pressures for High Speed Operation The manufacturer advocates driving at safe speedswithin posted speed limits. Where speed limits or condi-tions are such that the vehicle can be driven at highspeeds, maintaining correct tire inflation pressure is veryimportant. Increased tire pressure and redu...

Radial-Ply Tires WARNING! Combining radial ply tires with other types of tireson your vehicle will cause your vehicle to handlepoorly. The instability could cause an accident. Al-ways use radial ply tires in sets of four (or 6, in caseof trucks with dual rear wheels). Never combinethem with other ty...

Do not install a wheel cover or attempt to mount aconventional tire on the compact spare wheel, since thewheel is designed specifically for the compact spare. Do not install more than one compact spare tire/wheelon the vehicle at any given time. CAUTION! Because of the reduced ground clearance, do n...

WARNING! The limited use spare tires are for emergency useonly. Installation of this limited use spare tire affectsvehicle handling. With this tire, do not drive morethan 60 mph (100 km/h). Keep inflated to the coldtire inflation pressure listed on either your tireplacard or limited use spare tire a...

WARNING! • Do not use a tire, wheel size or rating other thanthat specified for your vehicle. Some combinationsof unapproved tires and wheels may change sus-pension dimensions and performance characteris-tics, resulting in changes to steering, handling, andbraking of your vehicle. This can cause unp...

Improper alignment will not cause vehicle vibration.Vibration may be a result of tire and wheel out-of-balance. Proper balancing will reduce vibration andavoid tire cupping and spotty wear. Low Tire Pressure (LTP) System Low Tire Indicator The Low Tire indicator in the Liquid Crystal Display(LCD) of...

Materials Added to Fuel All gasoline sold in the United States and Canada isrequired to contain effective detergent additives. The useof additional detergents or other additives is not neededunder normal conditions. Fuel System Cautions CAUTION! Follow these guidelines to maintain your vehicle’sperf...

WARNING! Remove the fuel tank filler tube cap (gas cap) slowlyto prevent fuel spray from the filler neck that maycause injury. The volatility of some gasolines maycause a buildup of pressure in the fuel tank that mayincrease while you drive the vehicle. This pressurecan result in a spray of gasoline...

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES CONTENTS 䡵 Hazard Warning Flasher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 䡵 If Your Engine Overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148 䡵 Jump-Starting Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 䡵 Driving On Slippery Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154 ▫ Tract...

HAZARD WARNING FLASHER The flasher switch is on the top of the steeringcolumn, just behind the steering wheel. Depress the flasher button and all front and rear directionalsignals will flash. Depress the flasher button again to turnthe flashers off. Do not use this emergency warning system when thev...

• In city traffic— While moving, shift into the highest gear possible to reduce engine RPM. NOTE: There are steps that you can take to slow down an impending overheat condition. If your air conditioneris on, turn it off. The air conditioning system adds heat tothe cooling system and turning off the ...

JUMP-STARTING PROCEDURES WARNING! • Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to getit started. Unburned fuel could enter the catalyticconverter and once the engine has started, igniteand damage the converter and vehicle. If thevehicle has a discharged battery, booster cablesmay be used to obtain a...

The battery is located under the battery access panelinside the trunk on the left side. Remote battery terminalsare located in the engine compartment for jump starting. NOTE: Remove the floor portion of the trunk carpet to gain access to the battery. 1. Wear eye protection and remove any metal jewel...

without letting the vehicles touch. Set the parking brake,place the transmission in neutral and turn the ignitionOFF for both vehicles. 3. Turn off the heater, radio and all unnecessary electricalloads. 4. If you are jump starting your Viper, connect one end ofa jumper cable to the positive terminal...

DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES WARNING! Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is danger-ous. You could lose control of the vehicle and possi-bly have an accident. Accelerate slowly and carefullywhenever there is likely to be poor traction (ice,snow, wet, mud, loose sand, etc.). Traction When driving...

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS 䡵 8.3L Engine Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160 䡵 Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II) . . . . . . . . . 161 䡵 Emissions Inspection And MaintenancePrograms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162 䡵 Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . . ...

8.3L ENGINE COMPARTMENT 8.3L Engine Compartment 160 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCEPROGRAMS In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to passan inspection of your vehicle’s emissions control system.Failure to pass could prevent vehicle registration. For states which have an I/M (Inspection andMaintenance) requirement, this check verifies...

NOTE: Intentional tampering with emissions control systems can result in civil penalties being assessedagainst you. WARNING! You can be badly injured working on or around amotor vehicle. Do only that service work for whichyou have the knowledge and the proper equipment.If you have any doubt about yo...

The best time to check the oil level is approximately 5minutes after a fully warmed up engine is turned off orbefore starting the engine after it has sat overnight. Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level ground alsowill improve the accuracy of the oil level readings. Addoil only when the lev...

• Trailer towing • Off-road or desert driving • If equipped for and operating with E–85 (ethanol) fuel If none of these apply to you, then change your engine oilevery 6,000 miles (10 000 km) or 6 months, whichevercomes first and follow the maintenance recommenda-tions in Schedule A . CAUTION! Overfi...

Materials Added to Engine Oil The manufacture strongly recommends against the addi-tion of any additives (other than leak detection dyes) tothe engine oil. Engine oil is an engineered product andit’s performance may be impaired by supplemental ad-ditives. Disposing of Used Engine Oil Care should be ...

To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter dam-age: • Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the ignitionwhen the transmission is in gear and the vehicle is inmotion. • Do not try to start the engine by pushing or towing thevehicle. • Do not idle the engine with any spark plug wiresdisconne...

CAUTION! It is essential when replacing the cables on thebattery that you attach the positive cable to thepositive post and the negative cable to the negativepost. Battery posts are marked positive (+) andnegative (-) and identified on the battery case. Cableclamps should be tight on the terminal po...

NOTE: The exterior and interior lighting functions will not work when the vehicle is in Battery Save Mode. Exit Battery Save Mode by doing the following: 1. Press the driver’s door exterior handle to wake up thevehicle. 2. If the door does not open (vehicle is armed) press theremote keyless entry un...

WARNING! • Use only refrigerants and compressor lubricantsapproved by the manufacturer for your air condi-tioning system. Some unapproved refrigerants areflammable and can explode, injuring you. Otherunapproved refrigerants or lubricants can causethe system to fail, requiring costly repairs. Referto...

Power Steering (Pump and Reservoir) WARNING! Fluid level should be checked with the engine off toprevent injury from moving parts. Do not overfill.Use only the manufacturer’s recommended fluid.Refer to Recommended Fluids, Lubricants andGenuine Parts for correct fluid type. Check power steering fluid...

All power steering pumps have a dipstick. Fluid levelshould be maintained at the proper level indicated on thedipstick. If necessary, add fluid to restore to the properindicated level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluidfrom all surfaces. Only petroleum fluids specially formu-lated for minimu...

• Rubber bushings • Starter bearing • Throttle control cable • Water pump bearings Windshield Washers The fluid reservoir in the right side engine compartmentshould be checked for fluid level at regular intervals. Fillthe reservoir with windshield antifreeze (not radiatorantifreeze). Exhaust System ...

Cooling System Inspection WARNING! You or others can be badly burned by hot coolant orsteam from your radiator. If you see or hear steamcoming from under the hood, don’t open the hooduntil the radiator has had time to cool. Never try toopen a cooling system pressure cap when the radia-tor is hot. Co...

Adding Coolant When adding coolant, or refilling the system, a minimumsolution of 50% recommended HOAT ethylene glycolengine coolant (antifreeze) and distilled water should beused. Use higher concentrations (not to exceed 70%) iftemperatures below ⫺ 34°F ( ⫺ 37°C) are anticipated. Use only high puri...

WARNING! • The warning words “DO NOT OPEN HOT” onthe pressure cap are a safety precaution. Neveradd coolant to the radiator when the engine isoverheated. Do not loosen or remove the pressurecap to cool overheated engine. Heat causes pres-sure to build up in the cooling system. To preventscalding or ...

Coolant Level The coolant recovery bottle provides a visual method forchecking the coolant level without removing the pressurecap. With the engine warmed up, the coolant level should bebetween MIN and MAX on the coolant recovery bottle. When additional coolant is needed to maintain theproper level, ...

WARNING! Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure andpossibly an accident. Driving with your foot restingor riding on the brake pedal can result in abnormallyhigh brake temperatures, excessive lining wear, andpossible brake damage. You wouldn’t have your fullbraking capacity in an emergency. Brak...

servicing. It is mandatory to replace all clamps that havebeen loosened or removed during service. NOTE: Inspection of brake hoses should be done when- ever the brake system is serviced and at every engine oilchange. If there is any evidence of cracking, scuffing, orworn spots, the hose should be re...

CAUTION! Brake fluid can damage the finish of your Viper. Donot allow brake fluid to contact any painted surface. WARNING! Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result inspilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and thebrake fluid catching fire. Master Cylinder The fluid level in the master cylin...

fluid level up to the requirements described on the brakefluid reservoir. With disc brakes, fluid level can beexpected to fall as the brake pads wear. However, lowfluid level may be caused by a leak and a checkup may beneeded. Use only the manufacturer’s recommendedbrake fluid. Refer to the Recommen...

Transmission Lubricant Selection Refer to the Recommended Fluids, Lubricants and Genu-ine Parts section for correct fluid type. CAUTION! Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-turer’s recommended fluid may cause deteriorationin transmission shift quality. Refer to the Recom-mended Fluids,...

Paint and Trim Your vehicle is exposed to the corrosive effects of chemi-cal fall out, salt spray, and road film. To protect not onlythe paint and trim, but also exposed mountings andfixtures, it is important you wash it often and thoroughly. After washing, allow all surfaces to drain and dry before...

Minor damage can be repaired by using touch-up mate-rials available at your dealers. More extensive damageshould be corrected in your dealer’s paint facility. Seat Belt Maintenance Do not bleach, dye or clean the belts with chemicalsolvents or abrasive cleaners. This will weaken the fabric.Sun damag...

Power Distribution Center 198 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Cavity Fuse Circuits 70, 71 Mini Fuse20 AmpYellow Right HID Headlamp 72-76 MICRORELAY Batt-Run/Acc Relay 82-86 MICRORELAY Heated Rear Window (EBL) Re-lay 87-91 MICRORELAY Batt-Motor, Fuel Pump Relay VEHICLE STORAGE We recommend that you follow these guidelines beforestoring your vehicle for extended...

the vehicle is not going to be driven in the next 3weeks, follow the battery recharge procedure in theService Manual, then disconnect the battery at thenegative terminal or use the save feature described inMaintaining your Vehicle section under the Mainte-nance Procedures sub-section, within Mainten...

2. Twist off sockets counter-clockwise and pull out bulbsfrom the socket, install the new bulbs, and reinstall thebulb and socket assembly. Replace the splash shield. NOTE: On vehicles equipped with High Intensity Dis- charge Headlights (HID), when the headlights are turnedon there is a blue hue to ...

High Intensity Discharge Headlights (HID) The headlights are a type of high voltage discharge tube.High voltage can remain in the circuit even with theheadlight switch off and the key removed. Because of this, you should not attempt to service a headlight bulbyourself. If a headlight bulb fails, tak...

License Plate Light Twist off sockets counter-clockwise and pull out bulbs.Replace as required. MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 211 7

Headlight Aiming The headlights on your new Viper were aimed at thefactory. The factory setting was made at a no load setting.A great increase in weight will change the aiming and itmay be necessary to readjust the headlights if youtypically carry an excessive amount of weight in thetrunk or otherwi...

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES CONTENTS 䡵 Emission Control System Maintenance . . . . . . . . 218 䡵 Maintenance Schedules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218 ▫ Schedule “B” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221 ▫ Schedule “A” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228 8 M A I N T...

Miles 3,000 6,000 9,000 12,000 15,000 18,000 (Kilometers) (5 000) (10 000) (14 000) (19 000) (24 000) (29 000) Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if notreplaced at 3 months. X X X X X X Inspect the brake linings. X Change the rear axle fluid. X Inspect and replace, if necessary, the air cleane...

Miles 21,000 24,000 27,000 30,000 33,000 36,000 (Kilometers) (34 000) (38 000) (43 000) (48 000) (53 000) (58 000) Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if notreplaced at 3 months. X X X X X X Lubricate the front and rear suspension balljoints. X Inspect the brake linings. X X Change the rear axl...

Miles 39,000 42,000 45,000 48,000 51,000 54,000 (Kilometers) (62 000) (67 000) (72 000) (77 000) (82 000) (86 000) Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if notreplaced at 3 months. X X X X X X Lubricate the front and rear suspension balljoints. X Inspect the brake linings. X Inspect and replace, ...

Miles 93,000 96,000 99,000 102,000 105,000 (Kilometers) (149 000) (154 000) (158 000) (163 000) (168 000) Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if not replaced at3 months. X X X X X Inspect the brake linings. X Change the rear axle fluid. X Inspect and replace, if necessary, the engine air cleane...

SCHEDULE “A” Miles 6,000 12,000 18,000 24,000 30,000 36,000 (Kilometers) (10 000) (19 000) (29 000) (38 000) (48 000) (58 000) [Months] [6] [12] [18] [24] [30] [36] Change engine oil and engine oil filter. X X X X X X Change the rear axle fluid. X X Inspect the brake linings. X X Lubricate the front...

Miles 72,000 78,000 84,000 90,000 96,000 102,000 (Kilometers) (115 000) (125 000) (134 000) (144 000) (154 000) (163 000) [Months] [72] [78] [84] [90] [96] [102] Change engine oil and engine oil filter. X X X X X X Inspect the brake linings. X X Inspect and replace, if necessary, the engine air clea...

* This maintenance is recommended by DaimlerChryslerCorporation to the owner but is not required to maintainthe warranty on the PCV orifice. ‡ This maintenance is not required if previously replaced. Inspection and service should also be performed anytimea malfunction is observed or suspected. Retai...

IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE CONTENTS 䡵 Suggestions For Obtaining Service For YourVehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234 ▫ Prepare For The Appointment . . . . . . . . . . . . 234 ▫ Prepare A List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234 ▫ Be Reasonable ...

IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE The manufacturer and its dealers are vitally interested inyour satisfaction. We want you to be happy with ourproducts and services. Warranty service must be done by an authorizedChrysler, Dodge, or Jeep dealer. We strongly recommendthat you take your vehicle to you selling dea...

contract, call the manufacturer’s Service Contract Na-tional Customer Hotline at 1-800-521-9922. The manufacturer will not stand behind any servicecontract that is not the manufacturer’s Service Contract. Itis not responsible for any service contract other than themanufacturer’s Service Contract. If...

MOPAR 姞 PARTS Mopar 威 fluids, lubricants, parts, and accessories are available from your dealer. They will help you keep yourvehicle operating at its best. REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS In the 50 United States and Washington D.C.: If youbelieve that your vehicle has a defect which could causea crash or c...

PUBLICATION ORDER FORMS To order the following manuals, you may use either thewebsite or the phone numbers listed below. Visa, Mas-tercard, American Express, and Discover orders are ac-cepted. If you prefer mailing your payment, please callfor an order form. NOTE: A street address is required when o...

Call Toll Free at 1–800–890–4038 (U.S.) or 1–800–387–1143 (Canada) Or Visit us on the World Wide Web at: www.techauthority.daimlerchrysler.com or www.daimlerchrysler.ca/manuals DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORMTIRE QUALITY GRADES The following describes the tire grading categories estab-lished by...

WARNING! The traction grade is based on braking (straight-ahead) traction tests and does not include cornering(turning) performance. Temperature Grades The temperature grades are A (highest), B, and C, repre-senting the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat andits ability to dissipate heat whe...

Charging System Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90Chart, Tire Sizing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Light) . 162Checks, Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51Child Restraint . . . . . . . . . . . ....

Engine Oil Viscosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166,212Engine Oil Viscosity Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166Exhaust Gas Caution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51,145,182 Exhaust System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182Exterior Lights . . . . . . . . . . . ....

Scheduled Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164Seat Belt Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196 Seat Belt Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31,89Seat Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26,27 And Pregnant Women . . . . . . ....