power steering fluid CHRYSLER 300 LX 2006 Owners Manual

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 ON. If the LED is not lit during starting, have it
checked. If the light stays on or comes on while driving,
have the system checked by an authorized dealer.
Defroster
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 tread and sidewall for cuts or
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,
engine coolant, oil or other fluid leaks. Also, if gasoline
fumes are detected or fuel, power steering fluid or brake
fluid leaks are suspected, the cause should be located and
corrected immediately.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 61
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▫Windshield Washers...................107
▫Rain Sensing Wipers—If Equipped.........107
▫Mist Feature.........................108
▫Headlights On With Wipers
(Available With Auto Headlights Only)......108
▫Windshield Wiper Operation.............109
▫Intermittent Wiper System...............109
▫Adding Washer Fluid..................109

Headlight Washers—If Equipped.........110
▫Adding Washer Fluid..................110

Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column..........111

Power Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column—
If Equipped
..........................112

Traction Control System (TCS)—
If Equipped
..........................113

Rear Park Assist System—If Equipped.....114

Brake Assist System (BAS)—If Equipped....116

Electronic Stability Program (ESP)—
If Equipped
..........................117
▫Synchronizing ESP....................119

Electronic Speed Control.................119
▫To Activate..........................120
▫To Set At A Desired Speed...............120
▫To Deactivate........................120
▫To Resume Speed.....................120
▫To Vary The Speed Setting...............120
▫To Accelerate For Passing...............121

Overhead Console—If Equipped..........122
▫Courtesy/Reading Lights................122
▫Sunglasses Storage....................122

Garage Door Opener—If Equipped........123
▫Programming HomeLink................124
▫Canadian Programming/Gate Programming . . 126
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 65
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POWER STEERING
The standard power steering system will give you good
vehicle response and increased ease of maneuverability
in tight spaces. The system will provide mechanical
steering capability if power assist is lost.
If for some reason, the power assist is interrupted, it will
still be possible to steer your vehicle. Under these condi-
tions you will observe a substantial increase in steering
effort, especially at very low vehicle speeds and during
parking maneuvers.
NOTE:Increased noise levels at the end of the steering
wheel travel are considered normal and does not indicate
that there is a problem with the power steering system.
Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the power
steering pump may make noise for a short period of
time. This is due to the cold, thick fluid in the steering
system. This noise should be considered normal, and
does not in any way damage the steering system.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced power steering
assist could pose a safety risk to yourself and others.
Service should be obtained as soon as possible.
CAUTION!
Prolong operation of the steering system at the end
of the steering wheel travel will increase the steering
fluid temperature and should be avoided when
possible. Damage to the power steering pump may
occur.
228 STARTING AND OPERATING
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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS

2.7L Engine..........................292

3.5L Engine..........................293

5.7L Engine..........................294

Onboard Diagnostic System—OBD II......295

Emissions Inspection And Maintenance
Programs
............................296

Replacement Parts.....................297

Dealer Service........................297

Maintenance Procedures.................298
▫Engine Oil..........................298
▫Engine Oil Filter......................303▫Drive Belts—Check Condition And
Tensioner...........................303
▫Spark Plugs.........................303
▫Engine Air Cleaner Filter................304
▫Fuel Filter..........................304
▫Catalytic Converter....................304
▫Maintenance-Free Battery................306
▫Air Conditioner Maintenance.............307
▫A/C Air Filter—If Equipped............308
▫Power Steering—Fluid Check............309
▫Front & Rear Suspension Ball Joints........309
▫Steering Linkage......................309
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Refer to the“Maintenance Schedules”section of this
manual for the recommended air conditioning filter
replacement intervals.
Power Steering—Fluid Check
Checking the power steering fluid level at a defined
service interval is not required. The fluid should only be
checked if a leak is suspected, abnormal noises are
apparent, and/or the system is not functioning as antici-
pated. Coordinate inspection efforts through a certified
DaimlerChrysler Dealership.
WARNING!
Fluid level should be checked on a level surface and
with the engine off to prevent injury from moving
parts and to insure accurate fluid level reading. Do
not overfill. Use only manufacturers recommended
power steering fluid.
If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated
level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from all
surfaces. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts
for correct fluid type.
Front & Rear Suspension Ball Joints
The suspension ball joints should be inspected for exter-
nal leakage or damage when other maintenance is per-
formed.
Steering Linkage
The tie rod end ball joints should be inspected for
external leakage or damage when other maintenance is
performed.
Body Lubrication
Locks and all body pivot points, including such items as
seat tracks, doors, trunk and hood hinges, should be
lubricated periodically to assure quiet, easy operation
and to protect against rust and wear. Prior to the appli-
cation of any lubricant, the parts concerned should be
wiped clean to remove dust and grit; after lubricating
excess oil and grease should be removed. Particular
attention should also be given to hood latching compo-
nents to insure proper function. When performing other
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 309
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NOTE:Often, fluid such as oil, power steering fluid,
and brake fluid are used during assembly plant opera-
tions to facilitate the assembly of hoses to couplings.
Therefore, oil wetness at the hose-coupling area is not
necessarily an indication of leakage. Actual dripping of
hot fluid when systems are under pressure (during
vehicle operation), should be noted before a hose is
replaced based on leakage.
NOTE:Inspection of brake hoses should be performed
whenever the brake system is serviced and at every
engine oil change. Inspect hydraulic brake hoses for
surface cracking, scuffing, or worn spots. If there is any
evidence of cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, the hose
should be replaced immediately! Eventual deterioration
of the hose can take place resulting in a possibility of a
burst failure.
WARNING!
Worn brake hoses can burst and cause brake failure.
You could have an accident. If you see any signs of
cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, have the brake
hoses replaced immediately.
Brake Fluid Level Check
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked
when performing underhood services, or immediately if
the brake system warning light indicates system failure.
Clean the top of the master cylinder area before removing
the cap. Add fluid to bring the level up to the top of the
“FULL”mark on the side of the master cylinder reservoir.
Overfilling of fluid is not recommended because it may
cause leaking in the system.
Add enough fluid to bring the level up to the require-
ments described on the brake fluid reservoir. With disc
brakes, fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake
pads wear. However, low fluid level may be caused by a
leak and a checkup may be needed.
318 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
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Chassis
Component Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts
Automatic Transmission MoparATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent.
Brake Master Cylinder MoparDOT 3, SAE J1703 should be used. If DOT 3, SAE J1703 brake
fluid is not available, then DOT 4 is acceptable. Use only recommended
brake fluids.
Front Axle API Certified GL-5 SAE 75W90 Gear Lubricant or equivalent.
Power Steering Reservoir MoparPower Steering Fluid + 4, MoparATF+4 Automatic Transmission
Fluid or equivalent.
Rear Axle API Certified GL-5 SAE 75W140 Synthetic Gear Lubricant or equivalent.
Transfer Case MoparTransfer Case Lubricant LX, P/N 05170055EA, or equivalent.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 347
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Cooling System....................... 312
Engine Oil.......................298,299
Power Steering....................... 309
Fluids............................... 346
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts........ 346
Fog Lights.........................105,143
Folding Rear Seat....................... 94
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle.................. 285
Fuel................................. 253
Adding............................. 257
Additives........................... 255
Clean Air........................... 254
Filler Cap (Gas Cap)................... 257
Filter.............................. 304
Gasoline............................ 253
Gauge............................. 147
Hoses.............................. 319
Octane Rating.....................253,346
Requirements.....................253,344
Tank Capacity........................ 344
Fueling.............................. 257
Fuses................................ 326Garage Door Opener (HomeLink) .......... 123
Gas Cap (Fuel Filler Cap)................. 257
Gasoline, Clean Air..................... 254
Gasoline (Fuel)........................ 253
Gasoline, Reformulated.................. 254
Gauges
Coolant Temperature.................. 146
Fuel............................... 147
Speedometer......................... 143
Tachometer.......................... 143
Gear Ranges........................... 211
General Information.................15,23,234
Glass Cleaning......................... 324
Gross Axle Weight Rating..............260,263
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating............260,262
Hands-Free Phone (UConnect™) ............ 70
Hazard Warning Flasher.................. 274
Head Restraints......................... 94
Headlight Washers................... 110,310
Headlights............................ 336
High Beam.......................... 106
High Beam/Low Beam Select Switch...... 106
378 INDEX
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