2005 Dodge NEON SRT4 Owners Manual

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SECTION TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 STARTING AND OPERATING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179 IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195 10 INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203 10 INTRODUCTION CONTENTS 䡵 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 䡵 How To Use This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 䡵 Warnings And Cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 䡵 Vehicle Identification Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 䡵 Vehicle Modifications / Alterations . . . . . . . . . . 6 4 INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION This manual has been prepared with the assistance of service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with the operation and maintenance of your new vehicle. It is supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and various customer oriented documents. You are urged to read these publications carefully. Following the instruc- tions and recommendations in this manual will help assure safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle. NOTE: After you read the manual, it should be stored in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with the vehicle when sold, so that the new owner will be aware of all safety warnings. When it comes to service, remember that your dealer knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained techni- cians and genuine Mopar威 parts, and is interested in your satisfaction. WARNING! Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. In addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain prod- ucts of component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL Consult the table of contents to determine which section contains the information you desire. The detailed index, at the rear of this manual, contains a complete listing of all subjects. Consult the following table for a description of the symbols that may be used on your vehicle or throughout this owner’s manual: INTRODUCTION 5 6 INTRODUCTION WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS This manual contains WARNINGS against operating procedures which could result in an accident or bodily injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against procedures which could result in damage to your vehicle. If you do not read this entire manual you may miss important information. Observe all Warnings and Cautions. VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is found on a laser etched plate, located on the left front corner of the instrument panel, visible through the windshield. This number also appears on the vehicle registration or title. Vehicle Identification Number VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS WARNING! Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle could seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety and may lead to an accident resulting in serious injury or death. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS 䡵 A Word About Your Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 ▫ Ignition Key Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 ▫ Locking Doors With The Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 ▫ Key-In-Ignition Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 䡵 Sentry Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 ▫ Replacement Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 ▫ Customer Key Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 ▫ General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 䡵 Steering Wheel Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 ▫ To Manually Lock The Steering Wheel . . . . . . .13 ▫ To Release The Steering Wheel Lock . . . . . . . . .13 䡵 Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 ▫ Manual Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 ▫ Power Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 ▫ Central Locking/Unlocking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 ▫ Automatic Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 ▫ Child-Protection Door Lock System (Rear Doors) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 䡵 Internal Emergency Trunk Lid Release . . . . . . .17 䡵 Remote Trunk Lid Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 䡵 Remote Keyless Entry — If Equipped . . . . . . . .18 ▫ To Unlock The Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 ▫ To Lock The Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 8 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE ▫ Horn Chirp Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 ▫ To Unlock The Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 ▫ Using The Panic Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 ▫ Programming Additional Transmitters . . . . . . . .19 ▫ General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 ▫ Transmitter Battery Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 䡵 Vehicle Theft Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 ▫ To Set The Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 ▫ To Disarm The System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 ▫ Security System Manual Override . . . . . . . . . . .22 䡵 Power Windows — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . .22 䡵 Occupant Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 ▫ Lap/Shoulder Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 ▫ Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage . . . .27 ▫ Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure . . . . .28 ▫ Seat Belts And Pregnant Women . . . . . . . . . . . .29 ▫ Seat Belt Extender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 ▫ Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - Airbags . . . . . . . . . . .30 ▫ Child Restraint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 ▫ Transporting Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 䡵 Engine Break-In Recommendations . . . . . . . . . .45 䡵 Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 ▫ Exhaust Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 ▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 ▫ Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS The dealer that sold you your new vehicle has the key code numbers for your vehicle locks. These numbers can be used to order duplicate keys from your dealer. Ask your dealer for these numbers and keep them in a safe place. The double sided keys may be inserted into the locks with either side up. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 9 Ignition Key Removal Depress and hold the release button located between the ignition switch and the instrument panel. Turn the igni- tion key to LOCK and remove the key. Ignition Key Positions 10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! Leaving children in a vehicle unattended is danger- ous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be injured. Children should be warned not to touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the gear selector lever. Don’t leave the keys in the ignition. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle. CAUTION! An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always remove key from the ignition and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended. Locking Doors With The Key You can insert the key with either side up. To lock the door, turn the key rearward. To unlock the door, turn the key forward. See Section 7, Body Mechanism Lubrication of this manual for external lock lubrication. Key-In-Ignition Reminder Opening the driver’s door when the key is in the ignition switch, sounds a signal to remind you to remove the key. NOTE: With the driver’s door open, and the key in the ignition, the power door locks will not lock via the interior door lock switch. SENTRY KEY The Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unautho- rized operation of the vehicle by disabling the engine. The system will shut the engine off after 2 seconds of running if an invalid key is used to start the vehicle. This system utilizes ignition keys which have an electronic chip (transponder) embedded into them. Only keys that have been programmed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate the vehicle. The Sentry Key Immobilizer System does not need to be armed or activated. Operation of the system is automatic regardless of whether or not the vehicle is locked or unlocked. During normal operation, the Theft Alarm/ Immobilizer Light will come on for three (3) seconds immediately after the ignition switch is turned on for a bulb check. Afterwards, if the bulb remains on, this indicates a problem with the electronics. If the bulb begins to flash after the bulb check, this indicates that an invalid key has been used to start the vehicle. Both of these conditions will result in the engine being shut off after two (2) seconds of running. Keep in mind that a key which has not been programmed is also considered an invalid key even if it is cut to fit the ignition lock cylinder for that vehicle. If the Theft Alarm/Immobilizer Light comes on during normal vehicle operation (vehicle has been running for longer than 10 seconds), a fault has been detected in the electronics and the vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible. NOTE: • The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not compatible with remote starting systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of security protection. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11 • Exxon/Mobil Speed Pass,™ additional Sentry Keys, or any other transponder equipped components on the same keychain will not cause a key-related (tran- sponder) fault unless the additional part is physi- cally held against the ignition key being used when starting the vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other RF electronics will not cause interference with this system. All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle electronics. Replacement Keys NOTE: Only keys that have been programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start the vehicle. Once a Sentry Key has been programmed to a vehicle, it can not be programmed to any other vehicle. At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided with a four digit PIN number. This number is required for dealer replacement of keys. Duplication of keys may be performed at an authorized dealer or by using the Customer Key Programming procedure. This procedure 12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle electronics. A blank key is one which has never been programmed. NOTE: When having the Sentry Key Immobilizer System serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to the dealer. Customer Key Programming You can program new keys to the system if you have two valid sentry keys by doing the following: 1. Cut the additional Sentry Key Transponder blank(s) to match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code. 2. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch and turn the ignition switch ON for at least 3 seconds but no longer than 15 seconds. Turn the ignition switch OFF and remove the first key. 3. Insert the second valid key and turn the ignition switch ON within 15 seconds. After ten seconds a chime will sound and the Theft Alarm Light will begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch OFF and remove the second key. 4. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition switch and turn the ignition switch ON within 60 seconds. After 10 seconds a single chime will sound. The Theft Alarm Light will stop flashing, turn on again for 3 seconds; then turn off. The new Sentry Key has been programmed. Repeat this process to program up to a total of 8 keys. General Information The Sentry Key system complies with FCC rules part 15 and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference. • This device must accept any interference that may be received, including interference that may cause undes- ired operation. STEERING WHEEL LOCK Your vehicle is equipped with a passive steering wheel lock. This lock prevents steering the vehicle without the ignition key. If the steering wheel is rotated no more than 1/2 turn in either direction and the key is not in the ignition switch, the steering wheel will lock. To manually lock the steering wheel: With the engine running, rotate the steering wheel 1/2 turn, turn off the engine and remove the key. Turn the steering wheel slightly in either direction until the lock engages. To release the steering wheel lock: Insert the key in the ignition switch and start the engine. If the key is difficult to turn, rotate the wheel slightly to the right or left to disengage the lock. If you turned the wheel to the right to engage NOTE: the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13 An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always remove the key from the ignition and lock all the doors when leaving the vehicle unattended. DOOR LOCKS Manual Door Locks All doors are equipped with a rocker-type interior door lock. To lock a door when leaving your vehicle, press the rocker switch to the LOCK position and close the door. NOTE: To avoid accidentally locking your keys in the vehicle, make sure you have them with you before closing any door. WARNING! For personal security, and safety in the event of an accident, lock the vehicle doors as you drive as well as when you park and leave the vehicle. 14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! When leaving the vehicle always remove the key from the ignition lock, and lock your vehicle. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause severe personal inju- ries and death. Door Lock Switches Power Door Locks A power door lock switch is on each front door panel. Press this switch to lock or unlock the doors. Central Locking/Unlocking All vehicle doors are locked with the first turn of the key to the LOCK position. The double activation feature requires you to turn the key in the cylinder lock two times within five seconds to UNLOCK all vehicle doors at once. You may disable this feature and unlock all the doors with one turn of the key by performing the following procedure: NOTE: Steps 2 and 3 must be completed within 10 seconds. 1. Close all doors and place the key in the ignition switch. 2. Cycle the ignition switch ON/OFF four times ending in the OFF position. 3. Press the interior door lock switch to the UNLOCK position. 4. A single chime will sound to signify that you have successfully disabled the double activation feature. You can turn the feature back on by repeating the above mentioned procedure. You can turn the feature back on by repeating the above mentioned procedure. Automatic Door Locks The doors will lock automatically if: 1. all doors are closed, 2. vehicle speed is above 15 mph (24 km/h), 3. the accelerator pedal is depressed. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15 The Automatic Door Locks can be enabled or disabled by performing the following procedure: 1. Close all doors and place the key in the ignition switch. 2. Cycle the ignition switch ON/OFF four times ending in the OFF position. 3. Press the interior door lock switch to the LOCK position. 4. A single chime will sound to signify that you have successfully completed the programming. You can turn the feature back on by repeating the above mentioned procedure. 16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Child-Protection Door Lock System (Rear Doors) Child Lock Control To provide a safer environment for children riding in the rear seat, the rear doors of your vehicle have the child- protection door lock system. To use the system, open each rear door and slide the control UP to engage the locks and DOWN to disengage the child-protection locks. When the system on a door is engaged, that door can only be opened by using the outside door handle even if the inside door lock is in the unlocked position. WARNING! Avoid trapping anyone in a vehicle in a collision. Remember that the rear doors can only be opened from the outside when the child protection locks are engaged. NOTE: For emergency exit with the system engaged, move the door lock rocker switch to the UNLOCK position, roll down the window and open the door with the outside door handle. INTERNAL EMERGENCY TRUNK LID RELEASE WARNING! Do not allow children to have access to the trunk, either by climbing into the trunk from outside, or through the inside of the vehicle. Always close the trunk lid when your vehicle is unattended. Once in the trunk, young children may not be able to escape, even if they entered through the rear seat. If trapped in the trunk, children can die from suffocation or heat stroke. As a security measure, a Trunk Internal Emergency Release lever is built into the trunk latching mechanism. In the event of an individual being locked inside the trunk, the trunk can be simply opened by pulling on the glow-in-the-dark lever attached to the trunk latching mechanism. See picture below. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17 Emergency Release REMOTE TRUNK LID RELEASE You can open the trunk from inside the vehicle by pressing a switch located inside the glove compartment. NOTE: The remote trunk release feature will operate with the ignition switch in all positions. The remote trunk release will not operate above 5 mph. 18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY — IF EQUIPPED This system allows you to lock or unlock the doors and trunk or activate the panic alarm from distances up to about 23 feet (7 meters) using a hand held transmitter. Four Button Transmitter NOTE: A slight delay of up to two seconds can occur before the doors or trunk will unlock. To Unlock the Doors Press and release the UNLOCK button once to unlock the driver’s door. Press the button twice within 5 seconds to unlock all doors. The interior lights also come on and remain on for about 30 seconds when you unlock the doors. NOTE: You may turn off this feature and unlock all doors with one press of the button by following the procedure shown in the Central Locking/Unlocking paragraph. To Lock the Doors Press and release the LOCK button to lock all doors. The park/lamps will flash and the horn will chirp to ac- knowledge the signal. Horn Chirp Feature The horn chirp that signals that the doors have been locked can be toggled on or off by using the following procedure: 1. Insert the ignition key and turn the switch to the ON/RUN position. 2. Press and hold the UNLOCK button on the transmitter for 4 to 10 seconds. 3. Continue to hold the UNLOCK button and press the LOCK button. 4. Release both buttons. A chime will sound to signify that the feature has been successfully completed. To Unlock the Trunk Press the TRUNK button on the transmitter twice to unlock the trunk. NOTE: A slight delay of up to two seconds can occur before the trunk unlatches. Using The Panic Alarm To turn on the panic alarm feature, press and release the PANIC button. When the panic alarm is on the headlights and park/lamps will flash, the horn will pulse on and off and the interior lights will turn on. The panic alarm will stay on for 3 minutes unless you press the PANIC button a second time, or until vehicle speed reaches 15 mph (24 km/h). NOTE: When you turn off the panic alarm by pressing the PANIC button a second time, you may have to be closer to the vehicle due to the radio frequency noises of the system. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19 Programming Additional Transmitters Up to four transmitters can be programmed to your vehicle. Your new vehicle was shipped with two trans- mitters. See your dealer for additional transmitters. Additional transmitters can be programmed to the sys- tem by using the following procedure: 1. Insert the key into the ignition and turn the switch to the RUN position. 2. Press and hold the UNLOCK button on the transmitter for between four and ten seconds. 3. Continue to hold the UNLOCK button and press the PANIC button. A chime will sound to indicate that the transmitter programming mode has been entered. 4. Press a button on all transmitters to be programmed to the system, including any previously programmed trans- mitters. A chime will sound when each transmitter has been programmed. 5. Turn the ignition switch off to exit the transmitter programming mode. 20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE General Information This device complies with FCC rules part 15. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference and (2) This device must accept any interference that may be received, in- cluding interference that may cause undesired operation. If your transmitter fails to operate from a normal dis- tance, check for these two conditions. 1. Weak batteries in transmitter. The expected life of batteries is from one to two years. 2. Closeness to a radio transmitter such as a radio station tower, airport transmitter, and some mobile or CB radios. Transmitter Battery Service The recommended replacement battery is 2016 or its equivalent. NOTE: Do not touch the battery terminals that are on the back housing or the printed circuit board. 1. With the transmitter buttons facing down, use a thin coin or similar object to pry the two halves of the transmitter apart. Make sure not to damage the rubber gasket during removal. Separating Transmitter Halves 2. Remove and replace the batteries. Avoid touching the new batteries with your fingers. Skin oils may cause battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with rubbing alcohol. 3. To reassemble the transmitter case, snap two halves together. Make sure there is an even gap between the two halves. Test transmitter operation. VEHICLE THEFT ALARM The system monitors the doors, trunk latch, and ignition for unauthorized operation. If something triggers the alarm, the system will signal for about 18 minutes. For the first 3 minutes the horn will sound and the headlights, park/turn signal lights, tail lights and the indicator light in the cluster will flash. Then the exterior lights will flash for another 15 minutes. If the monitored system which triggered the alarm is deactivated, the alarm will continue to sound until 3 minutes of alarm time is reached. If the monitored system which triggered the alarm is deactivated after the alarm has been on for 3 minutes, the alarm will shut off immediately. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21 To set the alarm: 1. Remove the keys from the ignition switch and get out of the vehicle. 2. Lock the door using either the door key, power door lock switch, or the Keyless Entry Transmitter and close all doors. 3. The indicator light in the instrument cluster will flash rapidly for 16 seconds. This shows that the system is arming. During this period, if a door is opened, the ignition switch is turned on, or the power door locks are unlocked in any manner, the system will automatically disarm. If the light comes on but does not flash, the system is arming but there is a problem in the trunk circuit. After 16 seconds the indicator light will flash slowly. This shows that the system is fully armed. Vehicles equipped with the Sentry Key Immobilizer System can be safely started with a valid key. A valid key is one that is programmed to that particular vehicle. A valid key will disarm the system from the driver’s side door, an invalid key will trigger the alarm. 22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE If the trunk is opened with the key while the NOTE: system is armed, the alarm will sound. To disarm the system: Unlock a front door using either the key or the Keyless Entry Transmitter. Starting the vehicle with a valid Sentry key will disarm the system. Tamper Alert If the horn sounds 3 times when you unlock a front door using either a key or the Keyless Entry Transmitter, the alarm has been activated. Check the vehicle for tamper- ing. Security System Manual Override The system will not arm if you lock the doors using the manual lock control. POWER WINDOWS — IF EQUIPPED The window switches on the driver’s door panel control both front windows. The switch on the passenger’s door panel controls the passenger’s window. Power Window Switches OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS Some of the most important safety features in your vehicle are the restraint systems. These include the front and rear seat belts for the driver and all passengers, front airbags for both the driver and front passenger and side airbags for both the driver and front passenger. If you will be carrying children too small for adult-size belts, your seat belts also can be used to hold infant and child restraint systems. Please pay close attention to the information in this section. It tells you how to use your restraint system properly to keep you and your passengers as safe as possible. WARNING! In a collision, you and your passengers can suffer much greater injuries if you are not properly buck- led up. You can strike the interior of your vehicle or other passengers, or you can be thrown out of the vehicle. Always be sure you and others in your vehicle are buckled up properly. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23 Buckle up even though you are an excellent driver, even on short trips. Someone on the road may be a poor driver and cause a collision that includes you. This can happen far away from home or on your own street. Research has shown that seat belts save lives, and that they can reduce the seriousness of injuries in a collision. Some of the worst injuries happen when people are thrown from the vehicle. Seat belts reduce the possibility of ejection and the risk of injury caused by striking the inside of the vehicle. Everyone in a motor vehicle should be belted at all times. Lap/Shoulder Belts All the seats in your vehicle are equipped with Lap/ Shoulder Belts. The belt webbing retractor is designed to lock during very sudden stops or collisions. This feature allows the shoulder part of the belt to move freely with you under normal conditions. But in a collision, the belt will lock and reduce your risk of striking the inside of the vehicle or being thrown out. 24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • Wearing a seat belt incorrectly is dangerous. Seat belts are designed to go around the large bones of your body. These are the strongest parts of your body and can take the forces of a collision the best. • Wearing your belt in the wrong place could make your injuries in a collision much worse. You might suffer internal injuries, or you could even slide out of part of the belt. Follow these instruc- tions to wear your seat belt safely and to keep your passengers safe, too. • Two people should never be belted into a single seat belt. People belted together can crash into one another in an accident, hurting one another badly. Never use a lap/shoulder belt or lap belt for more than one person, no matter what their size. Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions 1. Enter the vehicle and close the door. Sit back and adjust the seat. Latch Plate 2. The seat belt latch plate is above the back of the front seat, next to your arm in the rear seat. Grasp the latch plate and pull out the belt. Slide the latch plate up the webbing as far as necessary to allow the belt to go around your lap. 3. When the belt is long enough to fit, insert the latch plate into the buckle until you hear a “click.” Latch Plate To Buckle THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25 WARNING! • A belt that is buckled into the wrong buckle will not protect you properly. The lap portion could ride too high on your body, possibly causing internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you. • A belt that is too loose will not protect you as well. In a sudden stop you could move too far forward, increasing the possibility of injury. Wear your seat belt snugly. • A belt that is worn under your arm is very dangerous. Your body could strike the inside sur- faces of the vehicle in a collision, increasing head and neck injury. A belt worn under the arm can cause internal injuries. Ribs aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. Wear the belt over your shoulder so that your strongest bones will take the force in a collision. • A shoulder belt placed behind will not protect you from injury during a collision. You are more likely to hit your head in a collision if you do not wear your shoulder belt. The lap and shoulder belt are meant to be used together. 26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 4. Position the lap belt across your thighs, below your abdomen. To remove slack in the lap belt portion, pull up on the shoulder belt. To loosen the lap belt if it is too tight, tilt the latch plate and pull on the lap belt. A snug belt reduces the risk of sliding under the belt in a collision. Removing Slack From Belt WARNING! • A lap belt worn too high can increase the risk of internal injury in a collision. The belt forces won’t be at the strong hip and pelvic bones, but across your abdomen. Always wear the lap belt as low as pos- sible and keep it snug. • A twisted belt can’t do its job as well. In a collision it could even cut into you. Be sure the belt is straight. If you can’t straighten a belt in your vehicle, take it to your dealer and have it fixed. 5. Position the shoulder belt on your chest so that it is comfortable and not resting on your neck. The retractor will withdraw any slack in the belt. 6. To release the belt, push the red button on the buckle. The belt will automatically retract to its stowed position. If necessary, slide the latch plate down the webbing to allow the belt to retract fully. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27 WARNING! A frayed or torn belt could rip apart in a collision and leave you with no protection. Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts, frays, or loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system. Front seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a collision. Rear seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a collision if they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing, etc.). Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage In the driver and front passenger seats, the shoulder belt can be adjusted upward or downward to position the belt away from your neck. Push up or down on the anchorage button to release the anchorage, and then move it up or down to the position that serves you best. Adjusting Upper Shoulder Belt As a guide, if you are shorter than average, you will prefer a lower position, and if you are taller than average, you’ll prefer a higher position. When you release the anchorage, try to move it up or down to make sure that it is locked in position. 28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure Use the following procedure to untwist a twisted lap/ shoulder belt. 1. Position the latch plate as close as possible to the anchor point. Twisted Seat Belt Positioning Latch Plate 2. At about 6 to 12 inches above the latch plate, grasp and twist the belt webbing 180° to create a fold that begins immediately above the latch plate. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 29 Creating A Fold 3. Slide the latch plate upward over the folded webbing. The folded webbing must enter the slot at the top of the latch plate. Sliding The Latch Plate 4. Continue to slide the latch plate up until it clears the folded webbing. Seat Belts And Pregnant Women We recommend that pregnant women use the seat belts throughout their pregnancy. Keeping the mother safe is the best way to keep the baby safe. Pregnant women should wear the lap part of the belt across the thighs and as snug across the hips as possible. 30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Keep the belt low so that it does not come across the abdomen. That way the strong bones of the hips will take the force if there is a collision. Seat Belt Extender If a seat belt is too short, even when fully extended and when the adjustable upper shoulder belt anchorage (if equipped) is in its lowest position, your dealer can provide you with a seat belt extender. This extender should be used only if the existing belt is not long enough. When it is not required, remove the extender and store it. WARNING! Using a seat belt extender when not needed can increase the risk of injury in a collision. Only use when the seat belt is not long enough when it is worn low and snug, and in the recommended seating positions. Remove and store the extender when not needed. Driver and Front Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - Airbags This vehicle has front airbags for both the driver and front passenger as a supplement to the seat belt restraint systems. The driver’s front airbag is mounted in the center of the steering wheel. The passenger’s front airbag is mounted in the instrument panel, above the glove compartment. The words SRS AIRBAG are embossed on the airbag covers. Front Airbag Components NOTE: The front airbags are certified to the Federal regulations that allow less forceful deployment. If the vehicle is equipped with side airbags, they are located inside the driver and front passenger seats, and their covers are also labeled SRS AIRBAG. Side Airbags NOTE: Airbag covers may not be obvious in the interior trim; but they will open to allow airbag deploy- ment. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 31 WARNING! • Do not put anything on or around the front airbag covers or attempt to manually open them. You may damage the airbags and you could be injured because the airbags are not there to protect you. These protective covers for the airbag cushions are designed to open only when the airbags are in- flating. • If your vehicle is equipped with side airbags, do not use accessory seat covers or place objects between you and the side airbags; the perfor- mance could be adversely affected and/or objects could be pushed into you, causing serious injury. • If your vehicle is equipped with side airbags, do not attach cup holders or any other objects on or around the door. The inflating side airbag could drive the objects into occupants, causing serious injury. 32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Airbags inflate in moderate to high speed impacts. Along with the seat belts, front airbags work with the instru- ment panel knee bolsters to provide improved protection for the driver and front passenger. Side airbags also work with seat belts to improve occupant protection. The seat belts are designed to protect you in many types of collisions. The front airbags deploy in moderate to severe frontal collisions. If your vehicle is equipped, the side airbag on the crash side of the vehicle is triggered in moderate to severe side collisions. In certain types of collisions, both the front and side airbags may be trig- gered. But even in collisions where the airbags work, you need the seat belts to keep you in the right position for the airbags to protect you properly. Here are some simple steps you can take to minimize the risk of harm from a deploying airbag. 1. Children 12 years old and under should always ride buckled up in a rear seat. Infants in rear facing child restraints (designed for chil- dren up to 20 lbs (9 kg) and less than one year old) should NEVER ride in the front seat of a vehicle with a passen- ger front airbag. An airbag deployment could cause severe injury or death to infants in that position. Children that are not big enough to properly wear the vehicle’s seat belt (see section on Child Restraint) should be 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 buckled up in the rear seat. Never allow children to slide the shoulder belt behind them or under their arm. If a child from 1 to 12 years old must ride in the front passenger seat because the vehicle is crowded, move the seat as far back as possible, and use the proper child restraint. See the section on Child Restraint. You should read the instructions provided with your child restraint to make sure that you are using it properly. 2. All occupants should wear their lap and shoulder belts properly. 3. The driver and front passenger seats should be moved back as far as practical to allow the front airbags room to inflate. 4. If your vehicle has side airbags, do not lean against the door, airbags will inflate forcefully into the space between you and the door. WARNING! • Relying on the airbags alone could lead to more severe injuries in a collision. The airbags work with your seat belt to restrain you properly. In some collisions the airbags won’t deploy at all. Always wear your seat belts even though you have airbags. • Being too close to the steering wheel or instrument panel during airbag deployment could cause seri- ous injury. Airbags need room to inflate. Sit back, comfortably extending your arms to reach the steer- ing wheel or instrument panel. • If the vehicle has side airbags, they also need room to inflate. Do not lean against the door. Sit upright in the center of the seat. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33 Airbag System Components The front airbag system consists of the following: • Airbag Control Module (ACM) • AIRBAG Readiness Light • Driver Airbag • Passenger Airbag • Steering Wheel and Column • Instrument Panel • Crash Sensor • Interconnecting Wiring • Knee Impact Bolsters The side airbag system, if equipped, consists of the following: • AIRBAG Readiness Light (shared with the front airbag • Side Airbag in the Driver’s Seat • Side Airbag in the Passenger’s Seat system) 34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE (SIACM) • Right and Left Side Impact Airbag Control Modules • Interconnecting Wiring How The Airbag System Works Front Airbag System • The front Airbag Control Module determines if a frontal collision is severe enough to require the airbags to inflate. • The Airbag Control Module is not designed to detect • The Airbag Control Module also monitors the readi- ness of the electronic parts of the system whenever the ignition switch is in the START or ON/RUN positions. These include all of the items listed above except the knee bolsters, the instrument panel, and the steering wheel and column. If the key is in the OFF position, in the ACC position, or not in the ignition switch, the airbags are not on and will not inflate. side, roll over, or rear collisions. • The Airbag Control Module also turns on the AIRBAG light in the instrument panel for 6 to 8 seconds when the ignition switch is first turned to ON/RUN, then turns the light off. If it detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it turns on the light either momen- tarily or continuously. Airbag Light WARNING! Ignoring the AIRBAG light in your instrument panel could mean you won’t have the airbags to protect you in a collision. If the light does not come on, stays on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as you drive, have the airbag system checked right away. • When the Airbag Control Module detects a collision requiring the airbags, it signals the inflator units. A large quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to inflate the airbags. The airbag covers separate and fold out of the way as the airbags inflate to their full size. The airbags fully inflate in about 50 milliseconds. This is only about half of the time it takes you to blink your eyes. The airbags then quickly deflate while helping to restrain the driver and front passenger. The driver’s front airbag gas is vented through the airbag material towards the instrument panel. The passenger’s front airbag gas is vented through vent holes in the sides of the airbag. In this way the airbags do not interfere with your control of the vehicle. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 35 • The knee impact bolsters help protect the knees and position you for the best interaction with the front airbag. If A Deployment Occurs The airbag system is designed to deploy when the Airbag Control Module detects a moderate-to-severe frontal collision, to help restrain the driver and front passenger, and then to immediately deflate. NOTE: A frontal collision that is not severe enough to need airbag protection will not activate the system. This does not mean something is wrong with the airbag system. If you do have a collision which deploys the airbags, any or all of the following may occur: • The nylon airbag material may sometimes cause abra- sions and/or skin reddening to the driver and front passenger as the airbags deploy and unfold. The abrasions are similar to friction rope burns or those you might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasium floor. They are not caused by contact with chemicals. They are not permanent and normally heal quickly. 36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE However, if you have not healed significantly within a few days, or if you have any blistering, see your doctor immediately. • As the airbags deflate you may see some smoke-like particles. The particles are a normal by-product of the process that generates the nontoxic gas used for airbag inflation. These airborne particles may irritate the skin, eyes, nose, or throat. If you have skin or eye irritation, rinse the area with cool water. For nose or throat irritation, move to fresh air. If the irritation continues, see your doctor. If these particles settle on your clothing, follow the garment manufacturer’s instruc- tions for cleaning. • It is not advisable to drive your vehicle after the airbags have deployed. If you are involved in another collision, the airbags will not be in place to protect you. WARNING! Deployed airbags can’t protect you in another colli- sion. Have the airbags replaced by an authorized dealer as soon as possible. Side Airbag System — If Equipped • The Side Impact Airbag Control Modules determine if a side collision is severe enough to require the airbag to inflate. The Side Impact Airbag Control Modules is not designed to detect roll over, front, or rear impacts. • The Side Impact Airbag Control Module monitors the readiness of the electronic parts of the system when- ever the ignition switch is in the START or ON/RUN positions. These include all of the items listed above. If the left or right SIACM detects a malfunction in any part of the system, it will send a message to the frontal ACM to turn the Airbag Light on. The Airbag Control Module also turns on the AIRBAG light in the instru- ment panel for 6 to 8 seconds when the ignition switch is first turned on as a diagnostic or system check, then turns the light off. • In moderate to severe side collisions, the side airbag inflator on the crash side of the vehicle is triggered by the appropriate SIACM, releasing a quantity of non- toxic gas. The inflating side airbag exits through the seat seam into the space between the occupant and the door. The side airbag moves at a very high speed and with such a high force, that it could injure you if you are not seated properly, or if items are positioned in the area where the side airbag inflates. This especially applies to children. Enhanced Accident Response Time — If Equipped If the airbags deploy after an impact and the electrical system remains functional, vehicles equipped with power door locks will unlock automatically. In addition, approximately 10 seconds after the vehicle has stopped moving, the interior lights will light until the ignition switch is turned off. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 37 Maintaining Your Airbag Systems WARNING! • Modifications to any part of the airbag system could cause it to fail when you need it. You could be injured because the airbags are not there to protect you. Do not modify the components or wiring, including adding any kind of badges or stickers to the steering wheel hub trim cover or the upper right side of the instrument panel. Do not modify the front bumper, vehicle body struc- ture, or frame. • You need proper knee impact protection in a collision. Do not mount or locate any aftermarket equipment on or behind the knee bolster. • It is dangerous to try to repair any part of the airbag system yourself. Be sure to tell anyone who works on your vehicle that it has airbags. 38 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Airbag Light You will want to have the airbags ready to inflate for your protection in an impact. While the airbag system is designed to be maintenance free, if any of the following occurs, have an authorized dealer service the system immediately: • The AIRBAG light does not come on or flickers during the 6 to 8 seconds when the ignition switch is first turned on. • The light remains on or flickers after the 6 to 8 second • The light flickers or comes on and remains on while interval. driving. Child Restraint Everyone in your vehicle needs to be buckled up at all times — babies and children, too. Every state in the United States and all Canadian provinces require that small children ride in proper restraint systems. This is the law, and you can be prosecuted for ignoring it. Children 12 years and under should ride properly buck- led up in a rear seat, if available. According to crash statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seats, rather than in the front. WARNING! In a collision, an unrestrained child, even a tiny baby, can become a missile inside the vehicle. The force required to hold even an infant on your lap could become so great that you could not hold the child, no matter how strong you are. The child and others could be badly injured. Any child riding in your vehicle should be in a proper restraint for the child’s size. Infants And Small Children There are different sizes and types of restraints for children from newborn size to the child almost large enough for an adult safety belt. Always check the child seat Owner’s Manual to ensure you have the right seat for your child. Use the restraint that is correct for your child: • Safety experts recommend that children ride rearward-facing in the vehicle until they are at least one year old and weigh at least 20 lbs (9 kg). Two types of child restraints can be used rearward-facing: infant carriers and “convertible” child seats. Both types of child restraints are held in the vehicle by the lap/ shoulder belt or the LATCH child restraint anchorage system. • The infant carrier is only used rearward-facing in the vehicle. It is recommended for children who weigh up to about 20 lbs (9 kg). “Convertible” child seats can be used either rearward-facing or forward-facing in the vehicle. Convertible child seats often have a higher weight limit in the rearward-facing direction than infant carriers do, so they can be used rearward-facing by children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) but are less than one year old. • Rearward-facing child seats must NEVER be used in the front seat of a vehicle with the front passenger airbag. An airbag deployment could cause severe injury or death to infants in this position. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 39 • Children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) and who are older than one year can ride forward-facing in the vehicle. Forward-facing child seats and convertible child seats used in the forward-facing direction are for children who weigh 20 to 40 lbs (9 to 18 kg) and who are older than one year. These child seats are also held in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt or the LATCH child restraint anchorage system. • The belt-positioning booster seat is for children weigh- ing more than 40 lbs (18 kg), but who are still too small to fit the vehicle’s seat belts properly. If the child cannot sit with knees bent over the vehicle’s seat cushion while the child’s back is against the seat back; they should use a Belt Positioning Booster Seat. The child and booster seat are held in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt. (Some booster seats are equipped with a front shield and are held in the vehicle by the lap portion). For information additional refer to NOTE: www.seatcheck.org. 40 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! • Improper installation can lead to failure of an infant or child restraint. It could come loose in a collision. The child could be badly injured or killed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions ex- actly when installing an infant or child restraint. • A rearward facing infant restraint should only be used in a rear seat. A rearward facing infant restraint in the front seat may be struck by a deploying passenger airbag which may cause se- vere or fatal injury to the infant. Here are some tips on getting the most out of your child restraint: • Before buying any restraint system, make sure that it has a label certifying that it meets all applicable Safety Standards. We also recommend that you make sure that you can install the child restraint in the vehicle where you will use it before you buy it. • The restraint must be appropriate for your child’s weight and height. Check the label on the restraint for weight and height limits. • Carefully follow the instructions that come with the restraint. If you install the restraint improperly, it may not work when you need it. The passenger seat belts are equipped with cinching latch plates which are designed to keep the lap portion tight around the child restraint so that it is not necessary to use a locking clip. Pulling up on the shoulder portion of the lap/shoulder belt will tighten the belt. The cinching latch plate will keep the belt tight, however, any seat belt system will loosen with time, so check the belt occasion- ally and pull it tight if necessary. • In the rear seat, you may have trouble tightening the lap/shoulder belt on the child restraint because the buckle or latch plate is too close to the belt path opening on the restraint. Disconnect the latch plate from the buckle and twist the short buckle-end belt several times to shorten it. Insert the latch plate into the buckle with the release button facing out. • If the belt still can’t be tightened, or if pulling and pushing on the restraint loosens the belt, disconnect the latch plate from the buckle, turn the buckle around, and insert the latch plate into the buckle again. If you still can’t make the child restraint secure, try a different seating position. • Buckle the child into the seat according to the child • When your child restraint is not in use, secure it in the vehicle with the seat belt or remove it from the vehicle. Do not leave it loose in the vehicle. In a sudden stop or collision, it could strike the occupants or seat backs and cause serious personal injury. restraint manufacturer’s directions. LATCH —L ower Anchors and Tether for CHildren Your vehicle’s rear seat is equipped with the child restraint anchorage system called LATCH, which stands for Lower Anchors and Tether for Children. The LATCH system provides for the installation of the child restraint without using the vehicle seat belt. All three rear seating positions have exclusive lower anchorages. These are round bars, located at the rear of the seat cushion where it meets the seat back, and just visible when you lean into THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 41 the rear seat to install the child restraint. You will easily feel them if you run your finger along the intersection of the surfaces. The lower strap hooks are passed over the top of each bar, pushing aside the seat cover material. Latch Anchorages In addition, there are tether strap anchorages behind each rear seating position located in the panel between the rear seat back and the rear window — under a hinged plastic cover with this symbol on it. (Shown to the left) In recent years, only the tether anchorage has been provided in new vehicles. 42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE To attach a child restraint tether strap: 1. Lift the cover over the anchor directly behind the seat where you are placing the child restraint. Tether Strap Mounting 2. Route the tether strap to provide the most direct path for the strap between the anchor and the child seat. If your vehicle is equipped with adjustable rear head restraints, raise the head restraint and, where possible, route the tether strap under the head restraint and between the two posts. If not possible, lower the head restraint and pass the tether strap around the outboard side of the head restraint. 3. Attach the tether strap hook (A) of the child restraint to the anchor (B) and remove slack in the tether strap according to the child restraint manufacturer’s instruc- tions. WARNING! An incorrectly anchored tether strap could lead to increased head motion and possible injury to the child. Use only the anchor positions directly behind the child seat to secure a child restraint top tether strap. Child restraint systems having attachments designed to connect to the lower anchorages are now available. Child restraints having tether straps and hooks for connection to the top tether anchorage have been available for some time. In fact, many child restraint manufacturers will provide add-on tether strap kits for some of their older products. Tether anchorage kits are also available for most older vehicles. Because the lower anchorages are to be introduced to passenger carrying vehicles over a period of years, child restraint systems having attachments for those anchor- ages will continue to have features for installation in vehicles using the lap or lap/shoulder belt. They will also have tether straps, and you are urged to take advantage of all of the available attachments provided with your child restraint in any vehicle. Installing the Child Restraint System While there are LATCH anchorages at all three rear seating positions, do not install child restraints at all three positions at the same time. The anchorages are not designed to restrain three child restraints at one time. Instead, you may install one child restraint at the center position, or two child restraints at the right and left positions. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43 WARNING! Do not install child restraint systems equipped with LATCH attachments at all three rear seating posi- tions at one time. The LATCH anchorages are de- signed to restrain no more than two child restraints at a time in the event of a collision. We urge that you carefully follow the directions of the manufacturer when installing your child restraint. Many, but not all, restraint systems will be equipped with separate straps on each side, with each having a hook or connector and a means for adjusting the tension in the strap. Forward-facing toddler restraints and some rearward-facing infant restraints will also be equipped with a tether strap, a hook and means for adjusting the tension in the strap. In general, you will first loosen the adjusters on the lower straps and tether straps so that you can more easily attach the hook or connector to the lower anchorages and tether anchorages. Then tighten all three straps as you push the child restraint rearward and downward into the seat. 44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Not all child restraint systems will be installed as we have described here. Again, carefully follow the instruc- tions that come with the child restraint system. WARNING! Improper installation of a child restraint to the LATCH anchorages can lead to failure of an infant or child restraint. The child could be badly injured or killed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly when installing an infant or child restraint. If your child restraint seat is not LATCH NOTE: compatible, install the restraint using the vehicle seat belts. Children Too Large For Booster Seats Children who are large enough to wear the shoulder belt comfortably, and whose legs are long enough to bend over the front of the seat when their back is against the seat back, should use the lap/shoulder belt in a rear seat. • Make sure that the child is upright in the seat. as possible. • The lap portion should be low on the hips and as snug • Check belt fit periodically. A child’s squirming or • If the shoulder belt contacts the face or neck, move the child closer to the center of the vehicle. Never allow a child to put the shoulder belt under an arm or behind their back. slouching can move the belt out of position. Transporting Pets Airbags deploying in the front seat could harm your pet. An unrestrained pet will be thrown about and possibly injured, or injure a passenger during panic braking or in a collision. Pets should be restrained in the rear seat in pet harnesses or pet carriers that are secured by seat belts. ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS The engine in your new vehicle does not require a long break-in period. Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km). After the initial 60 miles (100 km), speeds up to 50 or 55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are desirable. While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration, within the limits of local traffic laws, contributes to a good break-in. Wide open throttle acceleration in low gear can be detrimental and should be avoided. The crankcase oil installed in the engine at the factory is a high quality energy conserving type lubricant. Oil changes should be consistent with expected climate con- ditions under which vehicle operations will occur. The recommended viscosity and quality grades are in Section 7 of this manual. Do not use non-detergent or straight mineral oils. A new engine may consume some oil during its first few thousand miles of operation. This is a normal part of the break-in and not an indication of a problem. THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 45 SAFETY TIPS Exhaust Gas WARNING! Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain carbon monoxide (CO) which is colorless and odorless. Breathing it can make you unconscious and can eventually poison you. To avoid breathing (CO) follow the safety tips below. Do not run the engine in a closed garage or in confined areas any longer than needed to move your vehicle in or out of the area. If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with the engine running, adjust your heating or cooling controls to force outside air into the vehicle. Set the blower at high speed. To avoid drawing exhaust gases into the vehicle, close the trunk while driving. However, if for some reason it must remain open, close all windows. Adjust the heating or cooling system to force outside air into the vehicle. Set the blower at high speed. 46 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The Vehicle Seat Belts Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts, frays and loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system. Front seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a collision. Rear seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a collision if they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing, etc.). If there is any question regarding belt or retractor condition, replace the belt. Airbag Light The light should come on and remain on for 6 to 8 seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first turned to ON/RUN. If the bulb is not lit during starting, have it replaced. If the light stays on or comes on while driving, have the system checked by an authorized dealer. Defrosters Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place the blower control on high speed. You should be able to feel the air directed against the windshield. Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The Vehicle Tires Examine tires for excessive tread wear or uneven wear patterns. Check for stones, nails, glass, or other objects lodged in the tread. Inspect for tread cuts or sidewall cracks. Check wheel nuts for tightness, and tires (includ- ing spare) for proper pressure. Lights Have someone observe the operation of exterior lights while you work the controls. Check turn signal and high beam indicator lights on the instrument panel. Fluid Leaks Check area under vehicle after overnight parking for fuel, water, oil, or other fluid leaks. Also, if gasoline fumes are present, the cause should be corrected immediately. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE CONTENTS 䡵 Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 ▫ Inside Day/Night Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 ▫ Outside Mirror — Driver’s Side . . . . . . . . . . . .49 ▫ Outside Mirror — Passenger’s Side . . . . . . . . . .49 ▫ Electric Remote-Control Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . .50 䡵 Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 ▫ Front Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 ▫ Reclining Bucket Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 ▫ Folding Rear Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 䡵 To Open And Close The Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 䡵 Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 ▫ Front Map/Reading Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54 ▫ Interior Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 ▫ Multi-Function Control Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 ▫ Headlights, Parking Lights, Instrument Panel Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 ▫ Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only) . . . . . .57 ▫ Lights-On Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 ▫ Fog Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 ▫ Turn Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 ▫ Headlight Dimmer Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 ▫ Passing Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 䡵 Windshield Wipers And Washers . . . . . . . . . . .58 48 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE ▫ Windshield Washers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 ▫ Mist Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58 ▫ Intermittent Wiper System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 ▫ Lo Speed Wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 ▫ Hi Speed Wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 䡵 Tilt Steering Column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 䡵 Power Sunroof — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 ▫ Sunroof Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 ▫ Wind Buffeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62 䡵 Console Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62 ▫ Ash Receiver And Cigar Lighter . . . . . . . . . . . .63 MIRRORS Inside Day/Night Mirror Adjust the mirror to center on the view through the rear window. A two point pivot system allows for horizontal and vertical mirror adjustment. Annoying headlight glare can be reduced by moving the small control under the mirror to the night position (toward rear of vehicle). The mirror should be adjusted while set in the day position (toward windshield). UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 49 Outside Mirror — Driver’s Side Adjust the outside mirror to center on the adjacent lane of traffic, with a slight overlap of the view obtained on the inside mirror. Outside Mirror — Passenger’s Side Adjust the convex outside mirror so you can just see the side of your vehicle in the part of the mirror closest to the vehicle. WARNING! Vehicles and other objects seen in the passenger side convex mirror will look smaller and farther away than they really are. Relying too much on your passenger side mirror could cause you to collide with another vehicle or other object. Use your inside mirror when judging the size or distance of a vehicle seen in this convex mirror. Adjusting Rear View Mirror 50 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Electric Remote-Control Mirrors Use the mirror select switch, located on the drivers door trim panel, to adjust the view obtained in the outside mirrors. Press the rocker knob to the L or R for Left or Right mirror selection. Use the center off position to guard against accidentally moving a mirror position. Select a mirror and press one of the four arrows for the direction you want the mirror to move. SEATS Front Seat Adjustment The adjusting bar is at the front of the seats, near the floor. Pull the bar up to move the seat to the desired position. Power Mirror Switches Manual Front Seat Adjuster Using body pressure, move forward and rearward on the seat to be sure the seat adjusters have latched after the adjustment bar is released. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 51 Reclining Bucket Seats The recliner control is on the side of the seat. To recline, lean forward slightly before lifting the lever, then lean back to the desired position and release the lever. Lean forward and lift the lever to return the seatback to its normal position. WARNING! • Adjusting a seat while the vehicle is moving is dangerous. The sudden movement of the seat could cause you to lose control. The seat belt might not be properly adjusted and you could be injured. Adjust the seat only while the vehicle is parked. • Do not ride with the seatback reclined so that the shoulder belt is no longer resting against your chest. In a collision you could slide under the seat belt and be seriously or even fatally injured. Use the recliner only when the vehicle is parked. 52 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Folding Rear Seat To provide additional storage area, the center of each rear seatback can be folded forward. Pull on the loops shown in the picture to fold down either or both seatbacks. WARNING! • It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. • Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and seat- belts. • Be sure that everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a seatbelt properly. Folding Rear Seat TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD To open the hood, two latches must be released. First pull the hood release lever located under the driver’s side of the instrument panel. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 53 Then lift the safety catch located under the front edge of the hood, near the center and raise the hood. Hood Release Lever Hood Safety Catch 54 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Use the hood prop rod to secure the hood in the open position as shown. To prevent possible damage, do not slam the hood to close it. Use a firm downward push at the center of the hood to ensure that both latches engage. LIGHTS Front Map/Reading Lights These lights, located under the rearview mirror, can be turned on by means of switches located at the base of the rearview mirror. Hood Prop Rod WARNING! If the hood is not fully latched it could fly up when the vehicle is moving and block your forward vision. You could have a collision. Be sure all hood latches are fully latched before driving. Front Map/Reading Lights NOTE: The map lights will remain on when the ignition switch is in the Run or Accessory positions. Interior Lights The interior lights come on when a door is opened. The interior lights will automatically turn off in about 8 minutes if a door is left open or the dimmer control is left in the Dome light position. Turn the ignition switch ON to restore the interior light operation. Dimmer Control With the park lights or headlights on, rotating the dimmer control for the interior lights on the Multi- Function Control Lever upward will increase the brightness of the instrument panel lights. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 55 Dome Light Position Rotate the dimmer control com- pletely upward to the second de- tent to turn on the interior lights. The interior lights will remain on when the dimmer control is in this position. Daytime Brightness Feature Certain instrument panel components can be illuminated at full brightness during the daytime. These are the Odometer and Radio. This can be helpful when driving with your headlights on during the daytime such as in a parade or a funeral procession. To activate this feature, rotate the dimmer ring on the left stalk one detent lower than the dome light. 56 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Multi-Function Control Lever The Multi-Function Control Lever controls the operation of the headlights, parking lights, turn signals, headlight beam selection, instrument panel light dimming, interior lights, the passing lights, and fog lights. The lever is located on the left side of the steering column. Headlights, Parking Lights, Instrument Panel Lights Turn the end of the Multi-Function Control Lever to the first detent for parking light operation. Turn to the second detent for headlight operation. Multi-Function Control Lever To change the brightness of the instrument panel lights, rotate the center portion of the Multi-Function Control Lever up or down. Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only) The front fog lights will come on as Daytime Running Lights whenever the ignition is on, the headlights are off, and the parking brake is off. The headlight switch must be used for normal night time driving. Lights-on Reminder If the headlights or parking lights are on after the ignition is turned OFF, a chime will sound when the driver’s door is opened. Leaving the headlights on for an extended period of time will discharge the battery resulting in reduced battery life and possible inability to start the vehicle. Fog Lights The front fog light switch is on the Multi-Function Control Lever. To activate the front fog lights, turn on the headlights and pull out the end of the control lever. NOTE: The fog lights will only operate with the head- lights on low beam. Selecting high beam headlights or park lights will turn off the fog lights. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 57 Turn Signals Move the Multi-Function Control Lever up or down to detent and the arrows on each side of the instrument cluster flash to show proper operation of the front and rear turn signal lights. You can signal a lane change by moving the lever partially up or down. If either light remains on and does not flash, or there is a very fast flash rate, check for a defective outside light bulb. If an indicator fails to light when the lever is moved, it would suggest that the fuse or indicator bulb is defective. Headlight Dimmer Switch Pull the Multi-Function Control Lever towards you to switch the headlights to HIGH beam. Pull the control lever a second time to switch the headlights to LOW beam. Passing Light You can signal another vehicle with your headlights by lightly pulling the Multi-Function Control Lever toward you. This will cause the headlights to turn on at high beam and remain on until the lever is released. 58 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS The wipers and washers are operated by a switch in the control lever. Move the control lever up to select the desired wiper speed. Windshield Wiper/Washer Control Windshield Washers To use the washer, pull the control lever toward you and hold while spray is desired. If the lever is pulled while in the delay range, the wiper will operate in low speed for two wipe cycles after the lever is released, and then resume the intermittent interval previously selected. If the lever is pulled while in the OFF position, the wipers will operate for two wipe cycles, then turn OFF. CAUTION! • In cold weather, always turn off the wiper switch and allow the wipers to return to the park position before turning off the engine. If the wiper switch is left on and the wipers freeze to the windshield, damage to the wiper motor may occur when the vehicle is restarted. Mist Function Push down on the wiper control lever to activate a single wipe to clear the windshield of road mist or spray from a passing vehicle. The wiper blade will continue to wipe until you release the stalk. Intermittent Wiper System Use the intermittent wiper when weather conditions make a single wiping cycle, with a variable pause be- tween cycles, desirable. Move the lever to the first detent (DEL) position, then select the delay interval by turning the end of the stalk. Rotate the end upward to decrease the delay time and downward to increase it. The delay can be regulated from a maximum of approximately 18 seconds between cycles, to a second between cycles. Lo Speed Wipers Move the wiper stalk upward to the 2nd detent to obtain a low speed wiper function. Hi Speed Wipers Move the wiper stalk upward to the 3rd position to obtain the fastest wiper speed. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 59 TILT STEERING COLUMN To tilt the column, push down on the lever below the turn signal control and move the wheel up or down, as desired. Pull the lever back towards you to lock the column firmly in place. Tilt Steering Column Control 60 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! Tilting the steering column while the vehicle is moving is dangerous. Without a stable steering col- umn, you could lose control of the vehicle and have an accident. Adjust the column only while the ve- hicle is stopped. Be sure it is locked before driving. POWER SUNROOF — IF EQUIPPED The sunroof control is located on the headliner between the sun visors. Power Sunroof Switch A single control “tilts” the sunroof to the vent position and also slides the sunroof rearward to the full open position. Move the switch rearward to move the sunroof panel to the full vent position. The sunroof can be stopped at any position between closed and full vent open. Once the sunroof panel is in the full vent position, you may momentarily move the switch rearward (less than one second) to initiate the express open mode. During this operation, any movement of the switch will stop the sunroof and it will remain in a partial open position. NOTE: When closing the sunroof, make sure the close button is held in the close position until the motor stops. This ensures the sunroof is fully closed and latched. To close the sunroof, hold the switch in the forward position. Again, any release of the switch will stop the movement and the sunroof will remain in a partial open condition until the switch is pushed forward again. CAUTION! The sunroof should not be operated above 70 mph. Opening or closing the sunroof above 70 mph may jam the sunroof mechanism. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 61 WARNING! In an accident, there is a greater risk of being thrown from a vehicle with an open sunroof. You could also be seriously injured or killed. Always fasten your seat belt properly and make sure all passengers are properly secured too. Do not allow small children to operate the sunroof. Never allow fingers or other body parts, or any object to project through the sunroof opening. Injury may result. Sunroof Maintenance Use only a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the glass panel. 62 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE Wind Buffeting Wind buffeting can be described as the perception of pressure on the ears or a helicopter type sound in the ears. Your vehicle may exhibit wind buffeting with the windows down, or the sunroof (if so equipped) in certain open or partially open positions. This is a normal occur- rence and can be minimized. If the buffeting occurs with the rear windows open, open the front and rear windows together to minimize the buffeting. If the buffeting occurs with the sunroof open, adjust the sunroof opening to minimize the buffeting. CONSOLE FEATURES The Standard console with armrest has two front cup holders and a front storage tray. There are two additional cupholders; one is molded in the center of the console to hold large cups, and the other is on the underside of the console lid to serve passengers in the rear seat. The underside console lid also has an integral tissue pack holder. The covered storage area has CD and cassette holders. Front Console Ash Receiver and Cigar Lighter When the Smoker’s Package is ordered from your autho- rized dealer, an ash receiver tray and a cigar lighter element are furnished. The lighter element can be in- serted in the auxiliary power outlet. The ash receiver fits snugly in a cupholder position. To clean the ash receiver, lift it from the cupholder. UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 63 Ash Receiver Tray UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL CONTENTS 䡵 Instrument Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 䡵 Instrument Cluster—Turbo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 䡵 Instrument Cluster Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . .69 䡵 Electronic Digital Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 ▫ Clock Setting Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 䡵 Radio General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 ▫ Radio Broadcast Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 ▫ Two Types Of Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 ▫ Electrical Disturbances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 ▫ AM Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 ▫ FM Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 䡵 Sales Code RBK—AM/ FM Stereo Radio With CD Player And CD Changer Controls . . . . . . . .75 ▫ Radio Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 ▫ CD Player Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77 ▫ CD Changer Control Capability — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 䡵 Satellite Radio — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80 ▫ System Activation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80 ▫ Electronic Serial Number/Sirius Identification Number (ENS/SID) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 ▫ Selecting Satellite Mode In RBB, RAH And RBK Radios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 66 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL ▫ Selecting Satellite Mode In RBP, RBU, RAZ, RB1 And RBQ Radios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 ▫ Selecting a Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 ▫ Storing And Selecting Pre-Set Channels . . . . . . .82 ▫ Using The PTY (Program Type) Button (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 ▫ PTY Button ⬙Scan⬙ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 ▫ PTY Button ⬙Seek⬙ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 ▫ Satellite Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 ▫ Reception Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 䡵 Compact Disc Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83 䡵 Radio Operation And Cellular Phones . . . . . . . .84 䡵 Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84 ▫ Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84 ▫ Operating Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 䡵 Electric Rear Window Defroster . . . . . . . . . . . .90 䡵 Turbo Boost Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 INSTRUMENT PANEL FEATURES UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 67 68 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER—TURBO INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTIONS 1. Fog Light Indicator This light shows when the fog lights are ON. 2. Brake System Warning Light This light monitors various brake functions, including brake fluid level and parking brake application. If the brake light comes on, it may indicate that the parking brake is applied, or there is a low brake fluid level. It may also indicate an ABS malfunction that could lead to reduced braking per- formance. WARNING! Driving a vehicle with the brake light on is danger- ous. A significant decrease in braking performance or vehicle stability during braking may occur. It will take you longer to stop the vehicle or will make your vehicle harder to control. You could have an acci- dent. Have the vehicle checked immediately. UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 69 The operation of the Brake Warning light can be checked by turning the ignition key from the OFF to the ON position. The light should illuminate for three seconds, or until the engine is started, whichever comes first. The light should then go out unless the parking brake is applied or a brake fault is detected. If the light does not illuminate, have the light inspected and serviced as soon as possible. The light will also come on when the parking brake is applied with the ignition in the ON position. NOTE: This light shows only that the parking brake is on. It does not show the degree of brake application. If the parking brake is off and the light remains on, have the brake system inspected as soon as possible. 3. Anti-Lock Warning Light (ABS) This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) described elsewhere in this manual. This light will come on when the ignition key is turned to the ON position and may stay on for as long as four seconds. 70 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL If the ABS light remains on or comes on during driving, it indicates that the Anti-Lock portion of the brake system is not functioning and that service is required, however, the conventional brake system will continue to operate normally provided that the BRAKE warning light is not on. If the ABS light is on, the brake system should be serviced as soon as possible to restore the benefit of Anti-Lock Brakes. The warning light should be checked frequently to assure that it is operating properly. Turn the ignition key to a point midway between ON and START. The light should come on. If the light does not come on, have the system checked by an authorized dealer. 4. Speedometer Indicates vehicle speed. 5. Turn Signal Indicators The arrows will flash in unison with the exterior turn signal, when using the turn signal lever. 6. High Beam Indicator This light shows that the headlights are on high beam. Pull the turn signal lever toward the steering wheel to switch the headlights from high or low beam. 7. Tachometer The silver area of the scale shows the permissible engine revolutions-per-minute (rpm x 1000) for each gear range. Before reaching the red area, ease up on the accelerator to prevent engine damage. 8. Oil Pressure Light Shows low engine oil pressure. The light will come on and remain on when the ignition key is turned from OFF to the ON position, and the light will turn off after the engine is started. If the bulb does not come on during starting, have the system checked by an authorized dealer. If the light comes on and remains on while driving, stop the vehicle and shut off the engine. DO NOT OPERATE THE VEHICLE UNTIL THE CAUSE IS CORRECTED. The light does not show the quantity of oil in the engine. This can be determined using the procedure shown in Section 7. 9. Seat Belt Reminder Light When the ignition key is first turned on, this light will come on for about six seconds. A chime will sound if you have not pulled the shoulder belt out of the retractor. This is a reminder to “buckle up”. If you do not buckle up, the light will remain on. 10. Charging System Light This light shows the status of the electrical charging system. The light should come on briefly when the ignition is first turned on and remain on briefly as a bulb check. If the light stays on or comes on while driving, it means that there is a problem with the charging system. Obtain SERVICE IMMEDIATELY. 11. Airbag Light The light comes on and remains on for 6 to 8 seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first turned ON. If the light does not UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 71 come on during starting, stays on, or comes on while driving, have the system checked by an authorized dealer. 12. Theft Alarm Light This light will flash rapidly for several seconds when the alarm system is arming. The light will begin to flash slowly indicating that the system is armed. 13. Fuel Door Reminder This symbol is a reminder that the Fuel Filler Door is located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle 14. Fuel Gauge When the ignition key is in the ON position, the pointer will show the level of fuel remaining in the fuel tank. 15. Low Fuel Light When the fuel level drops to about 1/8 tank, the fuel symbol will light and a single chime will sound. The light will remain on until fuel is added. If the fuel level drops to about 1/2 gallon, the fuel symbol will begin to flash and the chime will sound several times. 72 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 16. Malfunction Indicator Light This light is part of an onboard diagnostic system called OBD that monitors engine con- trol systems. The light will be illuminated when the key is in the ON/RUN position before engine start. If the bulb does not come on when turning the key from OFF to ON/RUN, have the condition checked promptly. Certain conditions such as a loose or missing gas cap, poor fuel quality, etc., may illuminate the light after engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on through several of your typical driving cycles. In most situations, the vehicle will drive normally and will not require towing. If the Malfunction Indicator Light flashes when the engine is running, serious conditions may exist that could lead to immediate loss of power or severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible if this occurs. 17. Odometer/Trip Odometer Reset Knob Press this knob to switch between the odometer and trip odometer. While the trip odometer is being displayed, press and hold this knob for a few seconds to reset the trip odometer to zero miles/kilometers. 18. Odometer/Trip Odometer Shows the total distance the vehicle has been driven. U.S. Federal regulations require that upon transfer of vehicle ownership, the seller certify to the purchaser the correct mileage that the vehicle has been driven. There- fore, if the odometer reading changes during repair or replacement, be sure to keep a record of the reading before and after the service so the correct mileage can be determined. 19. Door Ajar Indicator This vacuum fluorescent indicator illuminates when a door is not completely closed. If the door is open for more than 8 minutes and the ignition key is in the OFF position, the indicator will turn off. UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 73 pointer drops back into the normal range. If the pointer remains on the H (red) mark, turn the engine off imme- diately and call for service. There are steps that you can take to slow down an impending overheat condition. If your air conditioning is on, turn it off. The air conditioning system adds heat to the engine cooling system and turning off the A/C removes this heat. You can also turn the Temperature control to maximum heat, the Mode control to Floor and the Fan control to High. This allows the heater core to act as a supplement to the radiator and aids in removing heat from the engine cooling system. 20. Trip Indicator This light will illuminate when the Trip Odometer is in use. 21. Temperature Gauge The temperature gauge shows engine coolant temperature. Normal operating range should be within one notch above or one notch below the 200 degree mark. The gauge pointer may show a higher than normal temperature when driv- ing in hot weather, up mountain grades, or in heavy stop and go traffic. If the pointer rises to the H (red) mark, the instrument cluster will sound a chime. Pull off to the side of the road at a safe area. With the vehicle in Park (automatic transmission), or with the vehicle in neutral and the emergrncy brake applied (manual transmission), idle the vehicle with the air conditioner turned off until the 74 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL ELECTRONIC DIGITAL CLOCK RADIO GENERAL INFORMATION The clock and radio each use the display panel built into the radio. A digital readout shows the time in hours and minutes whenever the ignition switch is in the ON or ACC position. When the ignition switch is in the OFF position, or when the radio frequency is being displayed, time keeping is accurately maintained. Clock Setting Procedure 1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON or ACC position.

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2005 Dodge NEON SRT4 Owners Manual