Dodge 2006 Stratus Sedan - Manual

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS 䡵 Sentry Key — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 ▫ Replacement Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 ▫ Customer Key Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 ▫ General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 ...

SENTRY KEY — IF EQUIPPED With this system, an electronically coded ignition keysends a signal to the vehicle electronics. If the electronicsrecognizes the signal, the vehicle will start and continueto run. If the system does not recognize the signal thevehicle will start and run for 2 seconds then s...

At the time of purchase, the original owner is providedwith a four digit PIN number. This number is requiredfor dealer replacement of keys. Duplication of keys maybe performed at an authorized dealer or by using theCustomer Key Programming procedure. This procedureconsists of programming a blank key...

Power Door Locks There is a door lock switch on each front door trim panellocated to the front of the door handle. Press this switchto lock or unlock the four doors. If you press the door lock switch while the keys are in theignition switch, and the driver’s door is open, the doorswill not lock. If ...

Central Locking — If Equipped All vehicle doors are locked with the first turn of the keyto the LOCK position. The double activation featurerequires you to turn the key in the cylinder lock twotimes within five seconds to UNLOCK all vehicle doorsat once. Door Ajar Warning If you move the vehicle and...

WARNING! Avoid trapping anyone in the vehicle in a collision.Remember that the rear doors can only be openedfrom the outside when the child protection locks areengaged. NOTE: For emergency exit with the system engaged, move the lock plunger up (unlocked position), lower thewindow and open the door w...

2. Continue to hold the Unlock button, wait at least 4but no longer than 10 seconds, then press the Trunkbutton. 3. Release both buttons. Panic Alarm The panic mode unlocks the driver’s door, turns on theinterior lights, flashes the headlights, and sounds thehorn for about 3 minutes or until the ala...

2. This device must accept any interference that may bereceived, including interference that may cause undes-ired operation If your Remote Lock Control fails to operate from anormal distance, check for these two conditions: 1. Weak batteries in transmitter. The expected life ofbatteries is from one ...

VEHICLE THEFT ALARM The system monitors the doors, trunk, and ignition forunauthorized operation. If something triggers the alarm, the system will signal forup to 18 minutes. For the first three minutes the horn willsound and the headlights and interior lights will flash.Then the horn will stop and ...

TRUNK LOCK AND RELEASE Use the key or the Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter toopen the trunk from outside the vehicle. From inside thecar the trunk lid can be released by depressing the TrunkRelease Button located on the instrument panel to the leftof the steering wheel. The transmission must be in P...

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 be simply opened bypulling on the glow-in-the-dark handle attached to thetrunk...

Please pay close attention to the information in thissection. It tells you how to use your restraint systemproperly to keep you and your passengers as safe aspossible. WARNING! In a collision, you and your passengers can suffermuch greater injuries if you are not properly buck-led up. You can strike...

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 yourbody and can take the forces of a collision thebest. Wearing your belt in the wrong place couldmake your injuries in a collision much worse. ...

As a guide, if you are shorter than average, you willprefer a lower position, and if you are taller than average,you’ll prefer a higher position. When you release theanchorage, try to move it up or down to make sure thatit is locked in position. In the rear seat, move toward the center of the seat t...

The Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert) can be reacti-vated by repeating this procedure. NOTE: Although the Enhanced Warning System (BeltAlert) has been deactivated, the Seat Belt WarningLight will continue to illuminate while the driver’s seatbelt remains unbuckled. Seat Belts and Pregnant Women We...

Driver and Right Front Passenger SupplementalRestraint System (SRS) - Airbag This vehicle has front airbags for both the driver andfront passenger as a supplement to the seat belt restraintsystems. The driver’s airbag is mounted in the center ofthe steering wheel. The passenger’s front airbag ismoun...

WARNING! • Do not put anything on or around the front airbagcovers or attempt to manually open them. You maydamage the airbags and you could be injured be-cause the airbags are not there to protect you. Theseprotective covers for the airbag cushions are de-signed to open only when the airbags are in...

Children that are not big enough to properly wear thevehicle seat belt (see section on “Child Restraint”) shouldbe secured in the rear seat in child restraints or belt-positioning booster seats. Older children who do not use child restraints or belt-positioning booster seats should ride properly buc...

WARNING! Ignoring the AIRBAG light in your instrument panelcould mean you won’t have the airbags to protectyou in a collision. If the light does not come on, stayson after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as youdrive, have the airbag system checked right away. • When the airbag control modul...

They are not permanent and normally heal quickly.However, if you haven’t healed significantly within afew days, or if you have any blistering, see your doctorimmediately. • As the airbags deflate you may see some smoke-likeparticles. The particles are a normal by-product of theprocess that generates...

where the window bag inflates. This especially applies tochildren. The window bag is only about 3 1 ⁄ 2 inches (8 3 ⁄ 4 cm) thick when it is inflated. Maintaining Your Airbag System WARNING! • Modifications to any part of the airbag systemcould cause it to fail when you need it. You couldbe injured ...

• Rearward-facing child seats must NEVER be used in the front seat of a vehicle with the front passengerairbag unless the airbag is turned off. An airbagdeployment could cause severe injury or death toinfants in this position. WARNING! • Improper installation can lead to failure of aninfant or child...

NOTE: For additional information refer to www.seatcheck.org or call 1–866–SEATCHECK. Older Children and Child Restraints Children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) and who areolder than one year can ride forward-facing in thevehicle. Forward-facing child seats and convertible childseats used in the ...

the child restraint using lower anchorages and uppertether straps from the child restraint to the vehiclestructure. LATCH-compatible child restraint systems are now avail-able. However, because the lower anchorages are to beintroduced over a period of years, child restraint systemshaving attachments...

Installing the LATCH-Compatible Child RestraintSystem We urge that you carefully follow the directions of themanufacturer when installing your child restraint. Not allchild restraint systems will be installed as described here.Again, carefully follow the installation instructions thatwere provided w...

child restraint rearward and downward into the seat,removing slack in the straps according to the childrestraint manufacturer’s instructions. NOTE: When using the LATCH attaching system to install a child restraint, please ensure that all seat beltsnot being used for occupant restraints are stowed a...

In the rear seat, you may have trouble tightening thelap/shoulder belt on the child restraint because thebuckle or latch plate is too close to the belt path openingon the restraint. Disconnect the latch plate from thebuckle and twist the short buckle-end belt several timesto shorten it. Insert the l...

3. Attach the tether strap hook (A) of the child restraintto the anchor (B) and remove slack in the tether strapaccording to the child restraint manufacturer’s instruc-tions. WARNING! An incorrectly anchored tether strap could lead toincreased head motion and possible injury to thechild. Use only th...

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS 䡵 Console Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 ▫ Console Features — Without Heated Seats . . . .50 ▫ Console Features — With Heated Seats . . . . . . .51 䡵 Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 ▫ ...

CONSOLE FEATURES Console Features — Without Heated Seats The front console has two cup holders in the front and astorage bin. An optional removable ashtray may belocated in the driver’s side cup holder. The center console/armrest has a pencil /tire gage holderand a tissue holder mounted on the under...

Console Features — With Heated Seats The front console has two cup holders. An optionalremovable ashtray may be located in the driver’s side cupholder. The center console/armrest has a pencil /tire gage holderand a tissue holder mounted on the underside of thecover. The bottom of the console bin als...

MIRRORS Inside Day/Night Mirror— If Equipped Adjust the mirror to center on the view through the rearwindow. A two point pivot system allows for horizontaland vertical mirror adjustment. Annoying headlight glare can be reduced by moving thesmall control under the mirror to the night position(toward ...

CAUTION! To avoid damage to the mirror during cleaning,never spray any cleaning solution directly onto themirror. Apply the solution onto a clean cloth andwipe the mirror clean. Electric Remote-Control Mirrors— If Equipped Both of the outside mirrors can be adjusted by using theremote controls mount...

Outside Mirror — Passenger’s Side Adjust the convex outside mirror so you can just see theside of your vehicle in the part of the mirror closest to thevehicle. WARNING! Vehicles and other objects seen in the right sideconvex mirror will look smaller and farther awaythan they really are. Relying too ...

After releasing the adjusting bar, apply forward andrearward body pressure to be sure the seat is latched. Reclining Bucket Seats The recliner control is on the side of the seat. To recline,lean forward slightly before lifting the lever, then leanback to the desired position and release the lever. L...

Power Seats — If Equipped The power seat switches are on the outboard side of theseat near the floor. Use the front switch to move the seatup, down, forward, rearward, or to tilt the seat. The rearswitch controls the seatback recliner. CAUTION! Do not place any article under a power seat as it mayca...

Folding Rear Seat To provide additional storage area, the rear seatback canbe folded forward. Pull on the loops shown in the pictureto fold down either or both seatbacks. When returning the rear seat back to the upright positionbe sure the seat back is latched. WARNING! The cargo area in the rear of...

TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD To open the hood, two latches must be released. First pullthe hood release lever located under the left side of theinstrument panel. Then lift the secondary latch located under the front edgeof the hood, near the center and raise the hood. Use the hood prop rod to secure t...

WARNING! If the hood is not fully latched it could fly up whenthe vehicle is moving and block your forward vision.You could have a collision. Be sure all hood latchesare fully latched before driving. LIGHTS Interior Lights The map/courtesy lights come on when a door is openedand the panel lamp dimme...

Daytime Mode (Daytime Brightness Feature) Rotate the dimmer control to the firstdetent (full-circle). This feature bright-ens the odometer and radio displaywhen the parking lights or headlightsare on during daylight conditions. Front Map/Reading Lights — If Equipped These lights are mounted between ...

Multi-Function Control Lever The Multi-Function lever controls the operation of theheadlights, turn signals, headlight beam select switch,instrument panel light dimming, courtesy lights, passinglights, dome light and fog lights. Headlights, Parking Lights, Instrument PanelLights Turn the end of the ...

Automatic Headlights—If Equipped This system automatically turns your headlights on at apreset level of outdoor lighting. Turn the end of thecontrol lever to the third detent to turn the system on.When the system is on, the headlight delay feature is alsoon. This means that your headlights will stay...

Headlight Beam Select Switch Pull the turn signal lever towards you to switch theheadlights to HIGH beam. Pull the turn signal lever asecond time to switch the headlights to LOW beam. Flash to Pass You can signal another vehicle with your headlights bylightly pulling the turn signal lever toward the...

To use the washer, pull the lever toward you and holdwhile spray is desired. If the lever is pulled while in thedelay range, the wiper will operate for several cyclesafter the lever is released, and then resume the intermit-tent interval previously selected. If the lever is pulled while in the OFF p...

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. TRACTION CONTROL— IF EQUIPPED To turn...

NOTE: The Traction Control System is enabled each time the ignition switch is turned On. This will occureven if you used the switch to turn the system off beforepowering down or turning the ignition to Lock. ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL— IF EQUIPPED When engaged, this device will control the throttle op...

To Deactivate: A soft tap on the brake pedal, pushing the CANCELbutton, or normal brake or clutch pressure will deactivatespeed control without erasing the memory. Pushing theON/OFF button or turning off the ignition turns thespeed control system off and erases the memory. To Resume Speed: To resume...

When Climbing A Hill If vehicle speed drops 3 mph (5 km/h) below the SpeedControl set speed, the transaxle will downshift to thirdgear. Under severe conditions the transaxle may down-shift again to second gear. The transaxle will upshift tofourth gear after the vehicle has reached the top of thehill...

GARAGE DOOR OPENER — IF EQUIPPED The HomeLink 威 Universal Transceiver replaces up to three remote controls (hand held transmitters) that oper-ate devices such as garage door openers, motorizedgates, or home lighting. It triggers these devices at thepush of a button. The Universal Transceiver operate...

WARNING! Vehicle exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a danger-ous gas. Do not run the vehicle’s exhaust whiletraining the transceiver. Exhaust gas can cause seri-ous injury or death. WARNING! Your motorized door or gate will open and closewhile you are training the Universal Transceiver. Donot train t...

5. The indicator light in the Universal Transceiver willbegin to flash, first slowly and then rapidly. The rapidflashing indicates successful programming. If after 90seconds the indicator light does not flash rapidly or goesout, return to step 1 and repeat the procedure. To train theother buttons, r...

1. Locate the training button on the garage door motorhead unit. The exact location and color of the button mayvary by garage door opener manufacturer. If you havedifficulty in locating the training button, check yourgarage door opener manual, or call 1-800-355-3515 or, onthe Internet, at www.homeli...

POWER SUNROOF — IF EQUIPPED The sunroof controls are mounted between the sun visorson the overhead console. WARNING! • Never leave children in a vehicle, with the keys inthe ignition switch. Occupants, particularly unat-tended children, can become entrapped by thepower sunroof while operating the po...

Opening Sunroof - Manual Press the switch rearward and hold, and the sunroof willopen automatically from any position. The sunroof willopen fully, then stop automatically. During this opera-tion, any release of the sunroof switch will stop thesunroof. Opening Sunroof - Express Press the switch rearw...

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL CONTENTS 䡵 Instruments And Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 䡵 Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 䡵 Instrument Cluster Description . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 䡵 Compass, Temperature, And Trip ComputerDisplay — If Equipped ....

INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 81 4

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER 82 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTION 1. Fuel Gauge When the ignition key is in the ON position, thepointer will show the level of fuel remaining inthe fuel tank. 2. Traction Control — If Equipped This display indicator illuminates momentarilyas a bulb check when the ignition switch is firstturned ON. The ...

13. Engine Temperature Warning Light This light warns of an overheated engine cool-ant condition. 14. Trip Odometer Button Press and release this button to change the display fromodometer to trip odometer. The word TRIP will appearwhen in the trip odometer mode. To reset the tripodometer, press and ...

COMPASS, TEMPERATURE, AND TRIPCOMPUTER DISPLAY — IF EQUIPPED This feature allows you to choose between a compass /temperature display and one of five trip conditions beingmonitored. Control Buttons Step Button Use this button to choose or cycle through the five tripconditions. Reset The following tr...

Trip Conditions Average Fuel Economy (AVG ECO) This display shows the average fuel economy since thelast reset. Estimated Range (DTE) This display shows the estimated distance that can betraveled with the fuel remaining in the tank. This esti-mated distance is based on the most recent trip informa-t...

SALES CODE RAZ—AM/ FM STEREO RADIOWITH CASSETTE TAPE PLAYER, CD PLAYERAND CD CHANGER CONTROLS NOTE: The radio sales code is located on the lower left side of your radio faceplate. Operating Instructions — Radio NOTE: Power to operate the radio is controlled by the ignition switch. It must be in the ...

AM/FM Selection Press the AM/FM button to change from AM to FM. Theoperating mode will be displayed next to the stationfrequency. The display will show ST when a stereostation is received. Scan Button Pressing the SCAN button causes the tuner to search forthe next station, in either AM or FM, pausin...

Noise Reduction The Dolby Noise Reduction System* is on whenever thetape player is on, but may be switched off. To turn off the Dolby Noise reduction System: Press theDolby button (button 2) after you insert the tape. The NRlight in the display will go off when the Dolby System isoff. The Dolby Syst...

• If you insert a disc with the ignition ON and the radioOFF, the CD will automatically be pulled into the CDPlayer and the display will show the time of day. Ifyou insert a disc with the ignition OFF, the display willshow the time of day for about 5 seconds, then go out. Seek Button Press the top o...

The audio output can be heard when fast forward andfast reverse are activated. Random Play (RND) Press the Random button to play the tracks on theselected disc in random order for an interesting change ofpace. Random can be cancelled by pressing the button a secondtime or by ejecting the CD from the...

SALES CODE RBB—AM/FM STEREO RADIOWITH CASSETTE TAPE PLAYER AND CDCHANGER CAPABILITY NOTE: The radio sales code is located on the lower left side of your radio faceplate. Radio Operation Power/Volume Control Press the ON/VOL control to turn the radio on. Turn thevolume control clockwise to increase t...

• Disc inserted upside down • Damaged disc • Water condensation on optics SALES CODE RBK—AM/ FM STEREO RADIOWITH CD PLAYER AND CD CHANGERCONTROLS NOTE: The radio sales code is located on the lower left side of your radio faceplate. Radio Operation Power/Volume Control Press the ON/VOL control to tur...

Time 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 device m...

An ERR symbol will appear on the display if the laser isunable to read the Disc data for the following reasons: • Excessive vibration • Disc inserted upside down • Damaged disc • Water condensation on optics 6 DISC CD CHANGER — IF EQUIPPED The CD changer is located below the radio in theinstrument p...

2. Insert the CD while the light above the chosen buttonis flashing and the two lights on either side of the slot areilluminated. 3. Upon insertion, the CD will begin to play, and both thebutton light and the lights in the corner of the loadingslot will illuminate. 4. Repeat the process for loading ...

System Activation To activate your Sirius Satellite Radio service, call thetoll-free number 888-539-7474, or visit the Sirius web siteat www.sirius.com. Please have the following informa-tion available when activating your system: 1. The Electronic Serial Number/Sirius IdentificationNumber (ESN/SID)...

REMOTE SOUND SYSTEM CONTROLS — IFEQUIPPED The remote sound system controls are located on the rearsurface of the steering wheel. Reach behind the wheel toaccess the switches. The right hand control is a rocker type switch with apush-button in the center and controls the volume andmode of the sound s...

If you press the switch up or down twice it plays thesecond selection, three times, it will play the third, etc. The button in the center of the left hand switch has nofunction in this mode. CD Player — Single Disc in Radio Pressing the top of the switch once will go to the nexttrack on the CD. Pres...

Maintain your cassette tape player. The head and capstanshaft in the cassette player can pick up dirt or tapedeposits each time a cassette is played. The result ofdeposits on the capstan shaft may cause the tape to wraparound and become lodged in the tape transport. Theother adverse condition is low...

NOTE: If you experience difficulty in playing a particu- lar disc, it may be damaged, oversized, or have theftprotection encoding. Try a known good disc beforeconsidering disc player service. You may have a problemwith CD-R (recordable) and CD-RW (recordable andwritable) disks. RADIO OPERATION AND C...

Interior ATC Sensors There are two interior sensors in the vehicle. The SunSensor is mounted in the center of the instrument panelnear the windshield glass. The In-Car Temperature Sen-sor is mounted behind the ATC control panel. Thesesensors transmit data on sun strength and vehicle interiortemperat...

Comfort Control Use this control to regulate the comfort inside the pas-senger compartment. Press the top of the switch to raisethe temperature selection and the bottom of the switch tolower it. The comfort setting range is from Low, 60,61,....to 89,90, Hi, for automatic temperature control. Youcan ...

Windshield Defrost Air is directed through the defrost outlets andside window demist outlets. A small amount of air also is directed through the floor outlets. Use thismode with maximum fan and comfort level settingsfor best windshield and side window defrosting. Thedefrost symbol will glow in amber...

Hot Weather Automatic Recirculation The system will automatically recirculate the air insidethe vehicle when the interior is very warm. This willprovide maximum cooling. The system will also occa-sionally return to REC on hot, humid or very hot, drydays to maintain occupant comfort. Side Window Demi...

NOTE: If the system is in the AUTO mode and the fan control is already rotated fully clockwise or fully coun-terclockwise, the control may have to be rotated to themiddle and then to the desired fan setting for manualadjustment of fan speed. Manual Air Conditioning/Heater Control — IfEquipped The Ai...

Slight changes in engine speed or power may be noticedwhen the air conditioning compressor is on. This is anormal occurrence as the compressor will cycle on andoff to maintain comfort and increase fuel economy. NOTE: If your air conditioning performance seems lower than expected, check the front of ...

Rear Seat Outlets These outlets are located under the front seats and directwarm air to the rear seat passengers. Air is directedthrough these outlets when you select either the Floor,Bi-Level, or Mix modes. Rear Window Defroster The Rear Window Defroster button is located tothe right of the Mode Co...

NOTE: Do not use the recirculation mode as it will not clear windows under these conditions. Summer Operation Air conditioned vehicles must be protected with a high-quality antifreeze coolant to provide proper corrosionprotection and to raise the boiling point of the coolant forprotection against ov...

Outside Air Intake Make sure the air intake, directly in front of the wind-shield, is free of ice, slush, snow or other obstructionssuch as leaves. Leaves collected in the air-intake plenummay reduce air flow and plug the plenum water drains. Air Intake UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 135 4

STARTING AND OPERATING CONTENTS 䡵 Starting Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 ▫ Automatic Transaxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 ▫ Manual Transaxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 ▫ Normal Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 ▫ Extre...

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. CAUTION! Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get itstarted. Vehicles equipped with an automatic tran...

If Engine Fails to Start If the engine fails to start after you have followed the“NORMAL STARTING” or “EXTREME COLD WEATHER” procedures, it may be flooded. Push theaccelerator pedal all the way to the floor and hold it therewhile cranking the engine. This should clear any excessfuel in case the engi...

CAUTION! Damage to the transaxle may occur if the followingprecautions are not observed: • Shift into PARK only after the vehicle has come toa complete stop. • Shift into or out of REVERSE only after thevehicle has come to a complete stop and theengine is at idle speed. • Do not shift from REVERSE, ...

WARNING! Your vehicle could move and injure you and others ifit is not completely in P (Park). Check by trying tomove the gearshift lever back and forth withoutdepressing the shift button after you have set it in P.Make sure it is in Park before leaving the vehicle. WARNING! Never use the Park posit...

NOTE: Using the “3” range while operating the vehicle under heavy operating conditions will improve perfor-mance, fuel economy, and extend transaxle life by reduc-ing excessive shifting and heat build up. Use the “3” range when descending steep grades toprevent brake system distress. “L” Low This ra...

BRAKE SYSTEM Your vehicle is equipped with power assisted brakes asstandard equipment. In the event power assist is lost forany reason (for example, repeated brake applicationswith the engine off), the brakes will still function. Theeffort required to brake the vehicle will be much greaterthan that ...

A push-button located on the top of the steering columnturns the Traction Control System ON or OFF. The system is always in the “ON” mode unless: • The traction control switch has been used to turn thesystem off; • There is a Anti-Lock Brake System malfunction; • There is a Traction Control System m...

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. Ti...

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: DOT MA L9 ABCD 0301 DOT = Department of Transportation —This symbol certifies that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation tiresafety standards, and is approved for highway use. MA = Code representing the tire manufacturing location. (2 digits) L9 = Code represe...

Tire Loading and Tire Pressure Tire Placard Location NOTE: The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed on either the face of the driver’s door or the driver’s side“B” pillar. Tire and Loading Information Placard This placard tells you important information aboutthe:1) number of people that can...

Loading The vehicle maximum load on the tire must not exceedthe load carrying capacity of the tire on your vehicle. Youwill not exceed the tire’s load carrying capacity if youadhere to the loading conditions, tire size, and cold tireinflation pressures specified on the “Tire and LoadingInformation” ...

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....

CAUTION! After inspecting or adjusting the tire pressure, al-ways reinstall the valve stem cap–if equipped. Thiswill prevent moisture and dirt from entering thevalve stem, which could damage the valve stem. Inflation pressures specified on the placard are always“cold tire inflation pressure”. Cold t...

WARNING! High speed driving with your vehicle under maxi-mum load is dangerous. The added strain on yourtires could cause them to fail. You could have aserious accident. Don’t drive a vehicle loaded to themaximum capacity at continuous speeds above 75mph (120 km/h). Radial-Ply Tires WARNING! Combini...

WARNING! Fast spinning tires can be dangerous. Forces gener-ated by excessive wheel speeds may cause tire dam-age or failure. A tire could explode and injuresomeone. Do not spin your vehicle’s wheels fasterthan 35 mph (55 km/h) when you are stuck. Anddon’t let anyone near a spinning wheel, no matter...

Life of Tire The service life of a tire is dependent upon varyingfactors including but not limited to: • Driving style • Tire pressure • Distance driven WARNING! Tires and spare tire should be replaced after sixyears, regardless of the remaining tread. Failure tofollow this warning can result in sud...

WARNING! • Do not use a tire, wheel size or rating other thanthat specified for your vehicle. Some combina-tions of unapproved tires and wheels may changesuspension dimensions and performance charac-teristics, resulting in changes to steering, han-dling, and braking of your vehicle. This can causeun...

Follow the recommended tire rotation frequency for yourtype of driving found in the “Maintenance Schedules”Section of this manual. More frequent rotation is permis-sible if desired. The reasons for any rapid or unusualwear should be corrected before rotating. The suggestedrotation method is the “for...

Autostick Operation The Autostick position is just below the Overdrive posi-tion and is identified by the word “AUTOSTICK”. Whenyou place the shift lever in the Autostick position, it canbe moved from side to side. Moving the lever to the left(-) triggers a downshift and to the right (+) an upshift....

malfunctioning and may require immediate service.Contact your dealer for service assistance. • The use of fuel additives which are now being sold asoctane enhancers are not recommended. Most of theseproducts contain high concentrations of methanol.Fuel system damage or vehicle performance problemsre...

FLEXIBLE FUEL— (Fleet Vehicles Only) E-85 General Information The information in this section is for Flexible Fuel ve-hicles only. These vehicles can be identified by the uniquefuel filler door label that states Ethanol (E-85) or Un- leaded Gasoline Only. This section only covers those subjects that...

Observing these precautions will avoid possible hardstarting and/or significant deterioration in drivabilityduring warm up. NOTE: When the ambient temperature is above 90°F, you may experience hard starting and rough idle follow-ing start up even if the above recommendations arefollowed. Selection O...

CAUTION! Do not use ethanol mixture greater than 85% in yourvehicle. It will cause difficulty in cold starting andmay affect driveability. ADDING FUEL Fuel Filler Cap (Gas Cap) The gas cap is behind the fuel filler door, on the driver’sside of the vehicle. If the gas cap is lost or damaged, besure t...

CAUTION! A poorly fitting gas cap may cause the MalfunctionIndicator Lamp to turn on. WARNING! • Never have any smoking materials lit in or nearthe vehicle when the gas cap is removed or thetank filled. • Never add fuel to the vehicle when the engine isrunning. • A fire may result if gasoline is pum...

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your vehicle.This includes driver, passengers, cargo and tongueweight. The total load must be limited so that you do notexceed the GVWR. Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) The gross trailer weight (GTW) is the weight of the trailer...

Trailer Sway Control The trailer sway control is a telescoping link that can beinstalled between the hitch receiver and the trailer tonguethat typically provides adjustable friction associated withthe telescoping motion to dampen any unwanted trailerswaying motions while traveling. Weight-Carrying H...

Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings) The following chart provides the maximum trailer weight ratings towable for your given drivetrain. Engine/Transmission Frontal Area Max. GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.) Max. Tongue Wt. (See Note 1) 2.4L Automatic/ Manual 20 Sq. Ft 1000 lbs (454 kg) 110...

Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped onyour bumper or trailer hitch. Consider the following items when computing theweight on the rear axle of the vehicle: • The tongue weight of the trailer. • The weight of any other type of cargo or equipmentput in or on your vehicle. • The weight of the...

CAUTION! If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (454 kg)loaded, it should have its own brakes and theyshould be of adequate capacity. Failure to do thiscould lead to accelerated brake lining wear, higherbrake pedal effort, and longer stopping distances. WARNING! Do not connect trailer brakes to y...

The electrical connections are all complete to the vehiclebut you must mate the harness to a trailer connector.Refer to the following illustrations. Towing Tips Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stoppingand backing the trailer in an area away from heavytraffic. If using a manual transm...

Towing Tips — Automatic Transmission The “D” range can be selected when towing. However, iffrequent shifting occurs while in this range, the “3” rangeshould be selected. NOTE: Using the “3” range while operating the vehicle under heavy operating conditions will improve perfor-mance and extend transm...

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES CONTENTS 䡵 Hazard Warning Flasher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190 䡵 If Your Engine Overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190 䡵 Jacking And Tire Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191 ▫ Preparations For Jacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192 䡵 Jump-Startin...

HAZARD WARNING FLASHER The flasher switch is on top of the steering column,just behind the steering wheel. Depress the switch and both cluster indicators and all front and rear direc-tional signals will flash. Depress the switch again to turnHazard Warning Flashers off. Do not use this emergency war...

CAUTION! Driving with a hot cooling system could damageyour vehicle. If temperature gauge reads “H”, pullover and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle in Parkwith the air conditioner turned off until the pointerdrops back into the normal range. If the pointerremains on the “H”, turn the engine off imm...

Preparations for Jacking Park the vehicle on a firm level surface, avoid ice orslippery areas, and set the parking brake. Place the gearselector in PARK. • Turn on the Hazard Warning Flasher, park vehicle onfirm, level surface. • Put gear shift in park (automatic transmission) orreverse (manual tran...

3. Before raising the vehicle, use lug wrench to carefullypry off wheel cover (if equipped with steel wheels) orcenter cap (if equipped with aluminum wheels). Loosen,but do not remove, the wheel nuts by turning themcounterclockwise one turn while the wheel is still on theground. WARNING! To avoid po...

Jack Engagement Locations WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 195 6

JUMP-STARTING PROCEDURES IF BATTERY ISLOW WARNING! • Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to getit started. Vehicles equipped with an automatictransaxle cannot be started this way. Unburnedfuel could enter the catalytic converter and oncethe engine has started, ignite and damage theconverter a...

WARNING! Do not permit vehicles to touch each other as thiscould establish a ground connection and personinjury could result. 5. Connect the other cable, first to the negative terminalof the booster battery and then to the jump start attach-ment of the vehicle with the discharged battery. Makesure y...

7. When removing the jumper cables, reverse the abovesequence exactly. Be careful of the moving belts and fan. WARNING! Any procedure other than above could result in: 1. Personal injury caused by electrolyte squirtingout the battery vent; 2. Personal injury or property damage due to batteryexplosio...

DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES Acceleration Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other slip-pery surfaces may cause the front wheels to pull errati-cally to the right or left. This phenomenon occurs whenthere is a difference in the surface traction under the front(driving) wheels, particularly ...

TOWING THIS VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHERVEHICLE (Flat towing with all four wheels on theground) Automatic Transaxle Your vehicle may be towed under the following condi-tions: The gear selector must be in NEUTRAL, thedistance to be towed must not exceed 15 miles (25 km),and the towing speed must not exceed...

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS 䡵 2.4L Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205 䡵 2.7L Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206 䡵 Onboard Diagnostic System — OBD II . . . . . . 207 䡵 Emissions Inspection And MaintenancePrograms . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...

2.4L ENGINE 2.4L Engine Compartment MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 205 7

2.7L ENGINE 2.7L Engine Compartment 206 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated onboarddiagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitorsthe performance of the emissions, engine, and automatictransmission control systems. When these systems areoperating properly, your vehicle will provide excell...

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...

If your OBD system is not ready, you should see your authorized dealer or repair facility. If your vehicle wasrecently serviced or had a battery failure or replacement,you may need to do nothing more than drive yourvehicle as you normally would in order for your OBDsystem to update. A recheck with t...

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 your ability to performa service job, take your vehicle to a competentmechanic. MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES The pages that ...

CAUTION! Overfilling or underfilling will cause aeration orloss of oil pressure. This could damage your engine. Change Engine Oil Road conditions and your kind of driving affects theinterval at which your oil should be changed. Check thefollowing list to decide if any apply to you. • Day and night t...

If none of these apply to you, then change your engine oilat every interval shown on schedule ⬙ A ⬙ of the ⬙ Mainte- nance Schedules ⬙ section of this manual. NOTE: Under no circumstances should oil change intervals exceed 6,000 miles (10 000 km) or 6 monthswhichever comes first. Engine Oil Selectio...

Engine Oil Viscosity (SAE Grade) SAE 5W-20 and SAE 5W-30 engine oils are recom-mended for all operating temperatures. These engineoils are designed to improve low temperature startingand vehicle fuel economy. Refer to the engine oil fillercap for the preferred engine oil viscosity grade for eachvehi...

WARNING! A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you park overmaterials that can burn. Such materials might begrass or leaves coming into contact with your ex-haust system. Do not park or operate your vehicle inareas where your exhaust system can contact any-thing that can burn. In unusual situatio...

NOTE: The battery is stored in a compartment behind the left front fender and is accessible without removingthe tire and wheel. Remote battery terminals are locatedin the engine compartment for jump starting. To access the battery, turn the steering wheel fully to theright and remove the inner fende...

CAUTION! It is essential when replacing the cables on thebattery that the positive cable is attached to thepositive post and the negative cable is attached to thenegative post. Battery posts are marked positive (+)and negative (-) and identified on the battery case.Cable clamps should be tight on th...

Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling R-134a Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydrofluorocar-bon (HFC) that is endorsed by the Environmental Pro-tection Agency and is an ozone-saving product. How-ever, the manufacturer recommends that air conditioningservice be performed by dealers or other service fa...

If you use a lubricant that cannot be dispensed directlyinto the lock cylinder, apply a small amount of thelubricant to the key. Insert the key into the lock cylinder,then proceed as described above, to distribute the lubri-cant within the lock cylinder. Pay attention to trunkhinges, especially duri...

Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement • Lift the wiper arm away from the glass. • Push the release tab and slide the wiper blade assem-bly away from the wiper arm. Gently place the wiperarm on the windshield. • Install the new blade assembly onto the wiper arm tipuntil it locks in place. Windshield Was...

replacement. To prevent reducing this extended mainte-nance period, it is important that you use the samecoolant throughout the life of your vehicle. Please reviewthese recommendations for using Hybrid Organic Addi-tive Technology (HOAT) coolant. When adding coolant, a minimum solution of 50% rec-om...

Points To Remember NOTE: When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles (a few kilometers) of operation, you may observe vaporcoming from the front of the engine compartment. This isnormally a result of moisture from rain, snow, or highhumidity accumulating on the radiator and being vapor-ized when t...

Insure nylon tubing in these areas has not melted orcollapsed. NOTE: Often, fluids such as oil, power steering fluid, and brake fluid are used during assembly plant opera-tions to ease the assembly of hoses to couplings. There-fore, oil wetness at the hose-coupling area is not neces-sarily an indica...

Selection of Lubricant It is important that the proper lubricant is used in thetransmission to assure optimum transmission perfor-mance. Use only manufacturers recommended transmis-sion fluid, refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Partsfor correct fluid type. It is important that the transmissionf...

Frequency of Fluid Change Under normal operating conditions, the fluid installed atthe factory will give satisfactory lubrication for the life ofthe vehicle. Fluid changes are not necessary unless thelubricant has become contaminated with water. If con-taminated with water, the fluid should be chang...

• Avoid using abrasive compounds and power buffingthat may diminish the gloss or thin out the paintfinish. CAUTION! Do not use abrasive or strong cleaning materialssuch as steel wool or scouring powder, which willscratch metal and painted surfaces. Special Care • If you drive on salted or dusty road...

Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses The lenses in front of the instruments in this vehicle aremolded in clear plastic. When cleaning the lenses, caremust be taken to avoid scratching the plastic. • Clean with a wet soft rag. A mild soap solution may beused, but do not use high alcohol content...

A Power Distribution Center is located in the enginecompartment; near the air cleaner. This information ap-plies to vehicles built without the fuse and relay num-bering embossed on the Power Distribution Center TopCover. Interior Fuses The fuse access panel is behind the end cover at the leftside of...

3. Gently pry the headlight assembly away from thefender as shown in the picture. This will free the ball studfrom its retainer in the fender. Pull the headlight assem-bly away from the vehicle. 4. Turn the retaining ring counterclockwise and removethe bulb and socket assembly. 5. Pull the bulb out ...

6. If the bulb comes in contact with any oily surface,clean the bulb with rubbing alcohol. 7. Reinsert the bulb and socket assembly and turn theretaining ring clockwise to secure the bulb. 8. Reinstall the headlight assembly. Park, Turn Signal, Sidemarker Bulb Replacement 1. Open the hood and remove...

Fog Light Bulb Replacement 1. Remove the screw securing the light assembly to thefront fascia. 2. Pull the light assembly away from the vehicle toexpose the bulb and socket assembly. 3. Disconnect the wiring connector from the bulb andsocket assembly. 4. Turn the bulb and socket assembly countercloc...

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES CONTENTS 䡵 Emission Control System Maintenance . . . . . . 250 䡵 Maintenance Schedules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 ▫ Schedule “B” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253 ▫ Schedule “A” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 263 8 M A I N TE N A ...

• Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial ser-vice). 〫 • Off-road or desert operation. • If equipped for and operating with E-85 (ethanol)fuel. NOTE: If ANY of these apply to you then change your engine oil every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 3 months,whichever comes first and follow schedule B of...

Miles 3,000 6,000 9,000 12,000 15,000 18,000 (Kilometers) (5 000) (10 000) (15 000) (20 000) (25 000) (30 000) Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if notreplaced at 3 months. X X X X X X Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if necessary.* X X X X X X Inspect the front and rear brake pads,...

Miles 21,000 24,000 27,000 30,000 33,000 36,000 (Kilometers) (35 000) (40 000) (45 000) (50 000) (55 000) (60 000) Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if notreplaced at 3 months. X X X X X X Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if re- quired.* X X X X X Replace the air cleaner filter. X I...

Miles 57,000 60,000 63,000 66,000 69,000 72,000 (Kilometers) (95 000) (100 000) (105 000) (110 000) (115 000) (120 000) Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if notreplaced at 3 months. X X X X X X Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if necessary.* X X X X X Replace the air cleaner filter....

Miles 75,000 78,000 81,000 84,000 87,000 90,000 (Kilometers) (125 000) (130 000) (135 000) (140 000) (145 000) (150 000) Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if notreplaced at 3 months. X X X X X X Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if necessary.* X X X X X Replace the air cleaner filter...

Miles 108,000 111,000 114,000 117,000 120,000 (Kilometers) (185 000) (190 000) (195 000) (200 000) (205 000) Change engine oil and engine oil filter, if not re-placed at 3 months. X X X X X Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if neces- sary.* X X X X Replace the air cleaner filter. X Replace ...

Miles 108,000 111,000 114,000 117,000 120,000 (Kilometers) (185 000) (190 000) (195 000) (200 000) (205 000) Flush and replace engine coolant at 120 months, ifnot done at 100,000 miles. X Rotate the tires. X X * This maintenance is recommended by the manufactureto the owner but is not required to ma...

SCHEDULE “A” Miles 6,000 12,000 18,000 24,000 30,000 36,000 (Kilometers) (10 000) (20 000) (30 000) (40 000) (50 000) (60 000) [Months] [6] [12] [18] [24] [30] [36] Change engine oil and engine oil filter. X X X X X X Inspect the air cleaner filter and replace if necessary.* X X X X X Replace the ai...

IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE CONTENTS 䡵 Suggestions For Obtaining Service For YourVehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270 ▫ Prepare For The Appointment . . . . . . . . . . . . 270 ▫ Prepare A List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270 ▫ Be Reasonable ...

Service Contract You may have purchased a service contract for yourvehicle to help protect you from the high cost of unex-pected repairs after your manufacturer’s new vehiclelimited warranty expires. The manufacturer stands be-hind only the manufacturer’s Service Contracts. If youpurchased a manufac...

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 cause injury or death, you should immediatelyinform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administra-tion (NHTSA) in addition to notifying the manufacturer. If...

Temperature Grades The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C,representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heatand its ability to dissipate heat when tested undercontrolled conditions on a specified indoor laboratorytest wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause thematerial of...

Dimmer Switch, Headlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61,63Engine Temperature Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86Exterior Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Fog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62,85,244Front Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....

Passing Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Placard, Tire and Loading Information . . . . . . . 156Power Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149Door Locks . . . . . . . ....

Safety Checks Outside Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Safety Defects, Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273Safety Information, Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . ....