heating CHRYSLER 300 2008 1.G User Guide

CAUTION!
Never race the engine with the brakes on and the
vehicle in gear, and never hold the vehicle on an
incline without applying the brakes. These practices
can cause overheating and damage to the
transmission.
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been
added to the automatic transmission of this vehicle. A
clutch within the torque converter engages automatically
at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly differ-
ent feeling or response during normal operation in high
gear. When the vehicle speed drops, or during accelera-
tion, the clutch automatically and smoothly disengages.NOTE:
•The torque converter clutch will not engage until the
transmission fluid and engine coolant is warm (usu-
ally after 1–3 miles [1.6–4.8 km] of driving). Because
engine speed is higher when the torque converter
clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmis-
sion is not shifting into “Overdrive” when cold. This is
considered a normal condition. Pulling the selector
lever into the “3” position will show that the transmis-
sion is able to shift into and out of “Overdrive.”
•If the vehicle has not been driven for several days, the
first few seconds of operation after shifting the trans-
mission into gear may seem sluggish. This is due to the
transmission fluid partially draining from the torque
converter into the transmission. This is considered a
normal condition and it will not cause damage to the
transmission. The torque converter will refill within 5
seconds of shifting from “P” (Park) into any other gear
position.
STARTING AND OPERATING 311
5

Extended driving at high RPM should be avoided to
prevent excess heat generation. A reduction in vehicle
speed may be required to avoid extended driving at
high RPM. Return to a higher gear range or vehicle
speed when road conditions and RPM level allows.
Towing Tips — Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission over-
heating, take the following actions:
City Driving
When stopped for short periods, put transmission in “N”
(Neutral) and increase engine idle speed.
Highway Driving
Reduce speed.
Air Conditioning
Turn off temporarily.
Refer to “Cooling System” under “Maintenance Pro-
cedures” in Section 7 of this manual for more informa-
tion.
RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND
MOTORHOME, ETC.)
TOWING THIS VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHER
VEHICLE (Flat towing with all four wheels on the
ground)
Recreational towing for this vehicle is not recommended.
NOTE:If the vehicle requires towing, make sure all four
wheels are off the ground.
STARTING AND OPERATING 389
5

IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
In any of the following situations, you can reduce the
potential for overheating by taking the appropriate ac-
tion.
•On the highways — Slow down.
•In city traffic — While stopped, put transmission in
“N” (Neutral), but do not increase engine idle speed.
NOTE:There are steps that you can take to slow down
an impending overheat condition. If your air conditioner
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 HI. This allows the heater core to act as
a supplement to the radiator and aids in removing heat
from the engine cooling system.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If temperature gauge reads “H,” pull
over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the air
conditioner turned off until the pointer drops back
into the normal range. If the pointer remains on the
“H,” turn the engine off immediately, and call for
service.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 393
6

CAUTION!
•When “rocking” a stuck vehicle by moving be-
tween “First” and R (Reverse), do not spin the
wheels faster than 15 mph (24 km/h), or drivetrain
damage may result.
•Racing the engine or spinning the wheels too fast
may lead to transmission overheating and failure.
It can also damage the tires. Do not spin the
wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h).
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 injure some-
one. Do not spin your vehicle’s wheels faster than 35
mph (55 km/h) when you are stuck, and don’t let
anyone near a spinning wheel, no matter what the
speed.
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE
WITHOUT THE IGNITION KEY
Special care must be taken when the vehicle is towed
with the ignition in the LOCK position. The only ap-
proved method of towing without the ignition key is
with a flat bed truck. Proper towing equipment is neces-
sary to prevent damage to the vehicle.
408 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

WARNING!
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you park over
materials that can burn. Such materials might be
grass or leaves coming into contact with your exhaust
system. Do not park or operate your vehicle in areas
where your exhaust system can contact anything that
can burn.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning
engine operation, a scorching odor may indicate severe
and abnormal catalyst overheating. If this should occur,
safely bring the vehicle to a complete stop, shut the
engine off, and allow the vehicle to cool. Thereafter,
obtain service, including a tune-up to manufacturer’s
specifications immediately.To minimize the possibility of catalyst damage:•Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the ignition
when the transmission is in gear and the vehicle is in
motion.
•Do not try to start engine by pushing or towing the
vehicle.
•Do not idle the engine with any spark plug wires
disconnected or removed, such as when diagnostic
testing, or for prolonged periods during very rough
idling or malfunctioning operating conditions.
Maintenance-Free Battery
The top of the MAINTENANCE-FREE battery is perma-
nently sealed. You will never have to add water, nor is
periodic maintenance required.
NOTE:The battery is stored under an access cover in
the trunk. Remote battery terminals are located in the
engine compartment for jump-starting.
428 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Electrical Power Outlets................... 187
Electronic Brake Control System
Brake Assist System.................... 330
Electronic Stability Program............... 331
Traction Control System................. 328
Electronic Power Distribution Center (Fuses).... 451
Electronic Speed Control (Cruise Control)....148,152
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)............ 331
Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light...... 209
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC).... 213
Emergency Deck Lid Release................ 41
Emergency, In Case of
Freeing Vehicle When Stuck............... 407
Hazard Warning Flasher................. 392
Jacking............................. 394
Jump Starting......................... 404
Overheating.......................... 393
Towing............................. 408
Emergency Trunk Release................... 41Emission Control System Maintenance......418,478
Engine........................76,414,415,416
Air Cleaner.......................... 426
Block Heater......................... 303
Break-In Recommendations................ 76
Checking Oil Level..................421,422
Compartment...................414,415,416
Coolant (Antifreeze).................436,475
Cooling............................. 435
Exhaust Gas Caution..................78,368
Fails to Start.......................... 302
Flooded, Starting...................... 302
Fuel Requirements..................... 365
Jump Starting......................... 404
Multi-Displacement..................... 328
Oil ...........................421,473,475
Oil Change Interval...............203,218,423
Oil Filler Cap......................423,424
Oil Filter............................ 425
INDEX 501
10

Oil Filter Disposal...................... 425
Oil Selection.......................423,473
Oil Synthetic......................... 424
Operation............................ 76
Overheating.......................... 393
Starting............................. 299
Temperature Gauge..................... 207
Engine Oil Viscosity...................423,424
Enhanced Accident Response Feature.......... 63
Entry System, Illuminated.................. 20
Ethanol............................... 366
Event Data Recorder...................... 65
Exhaust Gas Caution................78,368,435
Exhaust System.......................78,434
Exterior Folding Mirrors................... 88
Exterior Lighting........................ 130
Exterior Lights.......................... 79
Filler Location Fuel...................... 369Filters
Air Cleaner.......................... 426
Air Conditioning....................291,431
Engine Fuel.......................... 426
Engine Oil........................425,475
Engine Oil Disposal.................... 425
Flashers
Hazard Warning....................... 392
Turn Signal......................79,135,202
Flash-To-Pass........................... 136
Flat Tire Changing....................... 394
Flooded Engine Starting................... 302
Floor Console.......................... 190
Fluid, Brake........................... 476
Fluid Capacities......................... 473
Fluid Leaks............................. 80
Fluid Level Checks
Automatic Transmission................. 444
Brake............................... 443
502 INDEX

Navigation Radio........................ 252
Navigation System....................... 252
New Vehicle Break-In Period................ 76
Occupant Restraints....................... 42
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel)............365,475
Odometer..........................202,208
Trip .............................202,208
Oil Change Indicator..................203,218
Oil Change Indicator, Reset..............203,218
Oil, Engine.........................421,475
Capacity............................ 473
Change Interval..................203,218,423
Checking.........................421,422
Dipstick..........................421,422
Disposal............................ 425
Filter............................425,475
Filter Disposal........................ 425
Identification Logo..................... 423Materials Added to..................... 424
Recommendation...................423,473
Synthetic............................ 424
Viscosity.......................423,424,473
Oil Filter, Change........................ 425
Oil Filter, Selection....................... 425
Onboard Diagnostic System..............417,418
Opener, Garage Door (HomeLink) ........... 177
Operating Precautions.................... 417
Outside Rearview Mirrors.................. 87
Overdrive............................. 309
Overhead Console....................... 176
Overheating, Engine...................207,393
Owner’s Manual (Operator Manual).......... 490
Paint Care............................. 446
Panic Alarm............................ 25
Park Sense System, Rear................... 172
Parking Brake.......................... 322
INDEX 509
10

INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS
Wireless Ignition Node (WIN)Fob with Integrated KeyTip Start FeatureIgnition Key RemovalKey-In-Ignition ReminderSENTRY KEY Replacement KeysCustomer Key (Fob) ProgrammingGeneral InformationSECURITY ALARM SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED Rearming of the
SystemTo Arm the SystemTo Disarm the SystemILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY To unlock the doorsTo lock the doorsTo unlatch the trunkUsing The Panic AlarmProgramming Additional TransmittersTransmitter Battery ServiceGeneral Information
REMOTE STARTING SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED How To Use Remote StartDOOR LOCKS Manual Door LocksPower Door LocksChild Protection Door LockWINDOWS Power WindowsWind BuffetingTRUNK LOCK AND RELEASE TRUNK SAFETY WARNING Trunk
Emergency Release OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS Lap/Shoulder BeltsLap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting ProcedureSeat Belt PretensionersEnhanced Seat Belt Reminder System (BeltAlert) Automatic Locking Mode - If EquippedSeat Belts and Pregnant WomenSeat Belt Extender
Driver and Front Passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - AirbagEvent Data Recorder (EDR)Child RestraintENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONSSAFETY TIPS Transporting PassengersLock Your VehicleExhaust GasSafety Checks You Should Make Inside
The VehiclePeriodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The VehicleUNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE MIRRORS Inside Day/Night MirrorAutomatic Dimming Inside Mirror - If EquippedOutside MirrorsExterior Mirrors Folding Feature - If Equipped
Outside Mirror Auto Dimmer - If EquippedOutside Mirrors with Turn Signal and Approach Lighting - If EquippedTilt in Reverse Feature - If EquippedPower Remote Control MirrorsHeated Remote Control Mirrors - If EquippedIlluminated Vanity Mirrors - If EquippedHANDS-FREE
COMMUNICATION (UConnect) - IF EQUIPPED OperationPhone Call FeaturesUConnect System FeaturesAdvanced Phone ConnectivityThings You Should Know About Your UConnect SystemGeneral InformationSEATS Power SeatsPower Reclining SeatsLumbar Support
Head RestraintsHeated Seats - If EquippedFolding Rear Seat DRIVER MEMORY SEAT - IF EQUIPPED Programming The Memory FeatureLinking and Unlinking theRemote Keyless Transmitter to the Memory FeatureMemory Position RecallEasy Entry/Exit Seat (Available
with Memory Seat Only)TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD LIGHTS Headlight SwitchAutomatic Headlights - If EquippedHeadlights On with Wipers (Available withAuto Headlights Only)SmartBeams - If EquippedHeadlight Time DelayDaytime Running Lights - If Equipped
Lights-on ReminderFog Lights - If EquippedMulti-Function LeverOverhead Console Map/Reading LightsInterior LightsWINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS Intermittent Wiper SystemMist FeatureWindshield WashersHeadlights On with Wipers (Available with Auto
Headlights Only)Rain Sensing Wipers - If EquippedAdding Washer FluidHEADLIGHT WASHERS - IF EQUIPPED Adding Washer FluidTILT/TELESCOPING STEERING COLUMN POWER TILT/TELESCOPING STEERING COLUMN - IF EQUIPPED ADJUSTABLE PEDALS
- IF EQUIPPED ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL Electronic Speed Control OperationTo ActivateTo Set At A Desired SpeedTo DeactivateTo Resume SpeedTo Vary the Speed SettingTo Accelerate For PassingADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL (ACC) - IF EQUIPPED Adaptive
Cruise Control (ACC) OperationActivating Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)To ActivateTo Set a Desired SpeedTo CancelTo Turn OffTo Resume SpeedTo Varythe Speed SettingSetting the Following Distance in ACCAdaptive Cruise Control (ACC) MenuDisplay Warnings and
MaintenancePrecautions While Driving with ACCGeneral InformationREAR PARK ASSIST SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED OVERHEAD CONSOLE Courtesy/Reading LightsSunglasses StorageGARAGE DOOR OPENER - IF EQUIPPED Programming HomeLinkGate
Operator/Canadian ProgrammingUsing HomeLinkReprogramming a Single HomeLink ButtonSecurityTroubleshooting TipsGeneral InformationPOWER SUNROOF - IF EQUIPPED Opening Sunroof - ExpressClosing Sunroof - ExpressPinch Protect FeaturePinch Protect
OverrideVenting Sunroof - ExpressSunshade OperationWind BuffetingSunroof MaintenanceIgnition Off OperationSunroof Fully ClosedELECTRICAL POWER OUTLETS Electrical Outlet Use With Engine OffCUP HOLDERS Front Seat Cup HoldersRear Seat Cup Holders
STORAGE Console FeaturesCargo AreaLOAD LEVELING SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONTROLS BASE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER PREMIUM INSTRUMENT CLUSTER INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER DESCRIPTIONS ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER (EVIC) - IF EQUIPPED Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) DisplaysOil ChangeRequiredTrip FunctionsCompass DisplayTelephone - If EquippedNavigation - If EquippedPersonal
Settings (Customer Programmable Features)SETTING THE ANALOG CLOCK RADIO GENERAL INFORMATION Radio Broadcast SignalsTwo Types of SignalsElectrical DisturbancesAM ReceptionFM ReceptionSALES CODE REN - MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED
Operating Instructions - Satellite Radio (If Equipped)Operating Instructions - Hands-Free Communication (UConnect) (If Equipped)Clock SettingProcedureSALES CODE REQ - AM/FM STEREO RADIO AND 6-DISC CD/DVD CHANGER (MP3/WMA AUX JACK) Operating
Instructions - Radio ModeOperation Instructions - (DISC MODE for CD and MP3/WMA Audio Play, DVD-VIDEO)Notes On Playing MP3/WMA FilesLIST Button (DISC Mode for MP3/WMA Play)INFO Button (DISC Mode for MP3/WMA Play)SALES CODE RER - MULTIMEDIA
SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED Operating Instructions - Satellite RadioOperating Instructions - Hands-Free Communication (UConnect) (If Equipped)Clock Setting ProcedureSALES CODE RES - AM/FM STEREO RADIO WITH CD PLAYER (MP3 AUX JACK) Operating Instructions
- Radio ModeOperation Instructions - CD MODE for CD and MP3 Audio PlayNotes On Playing MP3 FilesLIST Button (CD Mode for MP3 Play)INFO Button (CD Mode for MP3 Play)SATELLITE RADIO (RSC) - IF EQUIPPED (REQ AND RES RADIOS ONLY) System Activation
Electronic Serial Number/Sirius Identification Number (ENS/SID)Selecting Satellite ModeSatellite AntennaReception QualityOperating Instructions - Satellite ModeOperating Instructions - Hands Free Phone (If Equipped)Operating Instructions - Video Entertainment System
(VES) (If Equipped)VIDEO ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM - IF EQUIPPED UNIVERSAL CONSUMER INTERFACE (UCI) - IF EQUIPPED Connecting the iPodControlling the iPod using Radio ButtonsPlay ModeList or Browse ModeREMOTE SOUND SYSTEM CONTROLS
- IF EQUIPPED CD/DVD DISC MAINTENANCE RADIO OPERATION AND CELLULAR PHONES CLIMATE CONTROLS Manual Air Conditioning and Heating System Automatic Temperature Control - If Equipped Operating TipsREAR WINDOW FEATURES Electric Rear
Window DefrosterSTARTING AND OPERATING STARTING PROCEDURES Automatic TransmissionNormal Starting (Tip Start)Extremely Cold Weather (below -20degrees F or -29 degrees C)If Engine Fails To StartAfter StartingENGINE BLOCK HEATER - IF EQUIPPED
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Automatic Transmission - General InformationBrake/Transmission Shift Interlock System4 Speed Automatic Transmission5Speed Automatic TransmissionAUTOSTICK - IF EQUIPPED Autostick OperationALL WHEEL DRIVE - IF EQUIPPED
DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES AccelerationTractionDRIVING THROUGH WATER Flowing/Rising WaterShallow Standing WaterPARKING BRAKE BRAKE SYSTEM Anti-Lock Brake System - If EquippedPOWER STEERING MULTI DISPLACEMENT SYSTEM (MDS)
- 5.7L Engine Only TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM (TCS) - IF EQUIPPED BRAKE ASSIST SYSTEM (BAS) - IF EQUIPPED ELECTRONIC STABILITY PROGRAM (ESP) -
IF EQUIPPED Synchronizing ESPESP/BAS Malfunction Indicator and ESP/TCS Indicator LightsTIRE SAFETY INFORMATION Tire Markings Tire Identification Number (TIN)Tire Loading and Tire PressureTIRES - GENERAL INFORMATION Tire PressureTire Inflation
PressuresRadial-Ply TiresCompact Spare Tire - If EquippedLimited Use Spare - If EquippedTire SpinningTread Wear IndicatorsLife of TireReplacement TiresAlignment And BalanceSELF-SEALING TIRES - IF EQUIPPED TIRE CHAINS SNOW TIRES TIRE ROTATION
RECOMMENDATIONS TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR SYSTEM (TPMS) -
IF EQUIPPED Base System - If EquippedPremium System - If EquippedGeneral InformationFUEL REQUIREMENTS 2.7L Engine3.5L and 5.7L EnginesReformulated GasolineGasoline/Oxygenate BlendsMMT In GasolineMaterials Added to FuelFuel System CautionsCarbon
Monoxide WarningsADDING FUEL Fuel Filler Cap (Gas Cap)Loose Fuel Filler Cap MessageVEHICLE LOADING Vehicle Certification LabelGross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)OverloadingLoadingTRAILER TOWING Common Towing
DefinitionsTrailer Hitch ClassificationTrailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)Trailer and Tongue WeightTowing RequirementsTowing TipsRECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME, ETC.) TOWING THIS VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE
(Flat towing with all four wheels on the ground)WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES HAZARD WARNING FLASHER IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING Preparations For JackingJack Location/Spare Tire StowageJacking and Changing a Tire
Compact Spare TireWheel Cover or Center Cap Installation (If Required)JUMP-STARTING PROCEDURES FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE WITHOUT THE IGNITION KEYTOWING THIS VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE (Flat towing
with all four wheels on the ground)TOWING THIS VEHICLE BEHIND ANOTHER VEHICLE WITH A TOW DOLLYMAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 2.7L ENGINE COMPARTMENT 3.5L ENGINE COMPARTMENT 5.7L ENGINE COMPARTMENT ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC
SYSTEM - OBD II Loose Fuel Filler CapEMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS REPLACEMENT PARTS DEALER SERVICE MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES EngineOilEngine Oil FilterDrive Belts - Check Condition and TensionSpark PlugsEngine
Air Cleaner FilterFuel FilterCatalytic ConverterMaintenance-Free BatteryAir Conditioner MaintenanceA/C Air Filter - If EquippedPower Steering - Fluid CheckFront and Rear Suspension Ball JointsSteering LinkageBody LubricationWindshield Wiper BladesWindshield
Washers/Headlight Washers - If EquippedExhaust SystemCooling SystemHoses and Vacuum/Vapor HarnessesFuel SystemBrake SystemAutomatic TransmissionAll Wheel Drive (AWD) - If EquippedFront and Rear Wheel BearingsAppearance Care and Protection from
CorrosionCleaning the Center Console Cup HoldersFUSES (POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTERS) Fuses (Front Power Distribution Center)Fuses (Rear Power Distribution Center)VEHICLE STORAGE REPLACEMENT BULBS BULB REPLACEMENT Low Beam Headlight,
High Beam Headlight, Park/Turn Light, Inner Park Light, and Outer Park Light - 300 ModelsLow Beam Headlight, High Beam Headlight, and Park/Turn Light- 300CBackup Light, Side Marker Light, and Tail/Stop Turn Light - 300 ModelsTail/Stop, Tail, Turn Signal Light, and
Backup Light - 300C ModelsLicense LightFLUIDS AND CAPACITIES FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS, AND GENUINE PARTS EngineChassisMAINTENANCE SCHEDULES EMISSIONCONTROL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE Required Maintenance
IntervalsIF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE SUGGESTIONS FOR OBTAINING SERVICE FOR YOUR VEHICLE Prepare For The AppointmentPrepare A ListBe Reasonable With RequestsIF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE WARRANTY INFORMATION (U.S. Vehicles
Only) MOPAR PARTS REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS In CanadaPUBLICATION ORDER FORMS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADES TreadwearTraction GradesTemperature GradesINDEX