brakes CHRYSLER CROSSFIRE 2005 1.G User Guide

To return to the enhanced vehicle stability offered by ESP,
press the lower half of the switch (the ESP warning light
goes out).
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
The ABS gives increased vehicle stability and brake
performance under most braking conditions. The system
automatically “pumps” the brakes during severe braking
conditions to prevent wheel lock-up. The system operates
to prevent wheel lock-up and help avoid skidding on
slippery surfaces.
NOTE:The ABS improves steering control of the ve-
hicle during hard braking maneuvers.
The ABS prevents the wheels from locking up above a
vehicle speed of approximately 5 mph (8 km/h)
independent of road surface conditions.
At the instant one of the wheels is about to lock up, a
slight pulsation can be felt in the brake pedal, indicat-
ing that the ABS is in the regulating mode.
Keep firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal
while experiencing the pulsation. Continuous, steadybrake pedal pressure results in optimal braking power
while maintaining the ability to steer the vehicle.
In the case of an emergency brake maneuver, keep
continuous full pressure on the brake pedal. In this
manner only can the ABS be most effective.
On slippery road surfaces, the ABS will respond even
with light brake pedal pressure because of the in-
creased likelihood of locking wheels. The pulsating
brake pedal can be an indication of hazardous road
conditions and functions as a reminder to take extra
care while driving.WARNING!
Significant over- or under-inflation of tires, or mix-
ing sizes of front or rear tires or wheels on the
vehicle can reduce braking effectiveness. Maintain
proper tire pressure and always use the tires and
wheels specified in this manual for your vehicle.
STARTING AND OPERATING 149
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The anti-lock brake system conducts a low-speed self-test
at about 12 mph (20 km/h). If you have your foot lightly
on the brake while this test is occurring, you may feel
slight pedal movement. The movement can be more
apparent on ice and snow. The anti-lock brake system
pump motor makes a low humming noise during opera-
tion, which is normal.
WARNING!
Pumping of the brake pedal will diminish the effec-
tiveness of the anti-lock brakes and may lead to an
accident. Pumping makes the stopping distance
longer. Just press firmly on your brake pedal when
you need to slow down or stop.
NOTE:During severe braking conditions, a pulsing
sensation may occur and a clicking noise will be heard.
This is normal, indicating that the anti-lock brake system
is functioning.The ABS malfunction indicator light in the instrument
cluster comes on with the key in the ignition switch
turned to the ON/RUN position, and should go out with
the engine running. If the ABS light does not illuminate
briefly during this procedure, or remains on after the
engine is running, have the system checked by an autho-
rized dealer.
150 STARTING AND OPERATING

When the ABS malfunction indicator light in the instru-
ment cluster comes on while the engine is running, it
indicates that the ABS has detected a malfunction and has
switched off. In this case, the brake system functions in
the usual manner, but without antilock assistance. With
the ABS malfunctioning, the BAS and ESP are also
switched off. Both malfunction indicator lights come on
with the engine running. If the charging voltage falls
below 10 volts, the malfunction indicator light comes on
and the ABS is switched off. When the voltage is above
this value again, the malfunction indicator light should
go out and the ABS is operational. If the malfunction
indicator light stays illuminated, have the system
checked at your authorized dealer as soon as possible.WARNING!
ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from
acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking or
steering efficiency beyond that afforded by the con-
dition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction
afforded. The ABS cannot prevent accidents, includ-
ing those resulting from excessive speed in turns,
following another vehicle too closely, or hydroplan-
ing. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can
prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ABS-
equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reck-
less or dangerous manner which could jeopardize
the user’s safety or the safety of others.
STARTING AND OPERATING 151
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WARNING!
To use your brakes and accelerator more safely,
follow these tips:
•Do not “ride” the brakes by resting your foot on
the pedal. This could overheat the brakes and
result in unpredictable braking action, longer
stopping distances, or brake damage.
•When descending mountains or hills, repeated
braking can cause brake fade with loss of braking
control. Avoid repeated heavy braking by down-
shifting the transmission whenever possible.
•Do not drive too fast for road conditions, espe-
cially when roads are wet or slushy. A wedge of
water can build up between the tire tread and the
road. This hydroplaning action can cause loss of
traction, braking ability, and control.
•After going through deep water or a car wash,
brakes may become wet, resulting in decreased
performance and unpredictable braking action.
Dry the brakes by gentle, intermittent pedal ac-
tion while driving at very slow speeds.
Brake Pad Break-In
The brakes on your vehicle do not require a long break-in
period, but avoid repeated hard brake applications from
high speeds during initial break-in. Also avoid severe
brake loading such as may be encountered when de-
scending long mountain grades.
POWER STEERING
The power-assisted steering system of your vehicle pro-
vides mechanical steering capability in the event power
assist is lost.
If, for some reason, the hydraulic pressure is interrupted,
it will still be possible to steer your vehicle. Under these
conditions, you will observe a substantial increase in
steering effort.
152 STARTING AND OPERATING

TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE
We recommend that the vehicle be transported using flat
bed equipment. This method is preferable to other types
of towing.
CAUTION!
Important! If towing the vehicle, please note the
following: With the automatic central locking acti-
vated and the key in the ignition switch turned to the
ON/RUN position, the vehicle doors lock if the left
front wheel and the right rear wheel are turning at
vehicle speeds of approximately 9 mph (15 km/h) or
more. To prevent the vehicle door locks from lock-
ing, deactivate the automatic central locking.
CAUTION!
If the vehicle is towed with the front wheels raised,
the engine must be shut off (key in the ignition
switch turned to the OFF/LOCK or ACC positions).
Otherwise, the ESP will immediately be engaged
and will apply the rear wheel brakes. Switch off the
tow-away alarm as well as the automatic central
locking system.
Towing restrictions for vehicles with automatic transmis-
sion: The vehicle may be towed with all wheels on the
ground and the transmission selector lever in the Neutral
position for distances up to 30 miles (48 km) and at a
speed not to exceed 30 mph (48 km/h). The key must be
turned to the ON/RUN position in the ignition. To be
certain to avoid a possibility of damage to the transmis-
sion, however, we recommend the drive shaft be discon-
nected at the rear axle drive flange for any towing
beyond a short tow to a nearby garage.
Always comply with applicable state or local towing
ordinances.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 185
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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS

3.2L Engine..........................197

Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II).......198

Emissions Inspection And Maintenance
Programs
............................199

Replacement Parts.....................200

Dealer Service........................200

Maintenance Procedures.................201
▫Engine Oil..........................201
▫Ignition Wiring System.................207
▫Crankcase Emission Control System........207
▫Maintenance-Free Battery................207
▫Air Conditioner......................208▫Power Steering Fluid...................209
▫Chassis Lubrication....................210
▫Body Lubrication.....................211
▫Windshield Wiper Blades................211
▫Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement.......212
▫Windshield Washer Reservoir.............212
▫Exhaust System......................213
▫Cooling System.......................214
▫Hoses And Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses.......217
▫Brakes.............................217
▫Automatic Transmission................220
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•If frequent coolant additions are required, or if the
level in the recovery bottle does not drop when the
engine cools, the cooling system should be pressure
tested for leaks.
•Maintain a coolant concentration of a minimum of 50%
ethylene glycol Extended Life Coolant and high qual-
ity water with recommended antifreeze for proper
corrosion protection of your engine cooling system
that contains aluminum components.
•Make sure that the radiator and coolant bottle hoses
are not kinked or obstructed.
•Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle has
air conditioning, keep the front of the condenser clean,
also.
•Do not change the thermostat for summer or winter
operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install
ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may
result in unsatisfactory coolant performance, poor fuel
economy, and increased emissions.
Hoses And Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses
Inspect surfaces of hoses and nylon tubing for evidence
of heat and mechanical damage. Hard or soft spots,
brittle rubber, cracking, checking, tears, cuts, abrasions,
and excessive swelling indicate deterioration of the rub-
ber.
Pay particular attention to the hoses nearest to high heat
sources such as the exhaust manifold. Inspect hose rout-
ing to be sure hoses do not touch any heat source or
moving component that may cause heat damage or
mechanical wear.
Insure nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or
collapsed. Inspect all hose connections such as clamps
and couplings to make sure they are secure and no leaks
are present. Components should be replaced immedi-
ately if there is any evidence of degradation that could
cause failure.
Brakes
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically.
Suggested service intervals can be found in the Mainte-
nance section.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 217
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WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and
possibly an accident. Driving with your foot resting
or riding on the brake pedal can result in abnormally
high brake temperatures, excessive lining wear, and
possible brake damage. You wouldn’t have your full
braking capacity in an emergency.
Brake and Power Steering System Hoses
When servicing the vehicle for scheduled maintenance,
inspect surface of hoses and nylon tubing for evidence of
heat and mechanical damage. Hard and brittle rubber,
cracking, checking, tears, cuts, abrasions, and excessive
swelling suggest deterioration of the rubber. Particular
attention should be made to examining those hose sur-
faces nearest to high heat sources, such as the exhaust
manifold.
Inspect all hose clamps and couplings to make sure they
are secure and no leaks are present.
Insure nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or
collapsed.
NOTE:Often, fluids such as oil, power steering fluid,
and brake fluid are used during assembly plant opera-
tions to ease the assembly of hoses to couplings. There-
fore, oil wetness at the hose-coupling area is not neces-
sarily an 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 done
whenever the brake system is serviced and at every
engine oil change.
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.
218 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

SCOPE OF WORK FOR “B” SCHEDULE
MAINTENANCE SERVICE
Oil Change
•Change oil and replace filter
Maintenance
•Rotate tires
•Replace dust filter
•Lubricate hood hinges, latch, and secondary latch
•Reset FSS Display
Function Check
•Horn, hazard warning flashers, turn signals, and indi-
cator lamps
•Headlamps and exterior lighting
•Windshield wipers and washer system
•Check seat belts for damage and proper function
•Test hydraulic brakes and check parking brake func-
tionInspection
•Check front and rear brake pads for lining thickness
•Check condition of front and rear brake discs
•Check tires for damage and general condition
•Check tire inflation pressures and correct if necessary
•Check major underbody components for leakage or
damage (if there are signs of leakage, determine cause
and repair)
•Check condition of front axle ball joints and rubber
boots
•Check condition of steering components and rubber
boots
•Check underhood components for leakage or damage
(if there are signs of leakage determine cause and
repair)
•Check condition of accessory drive belt
•Check headlamp aiming, adjust if necessary
•Check windshield wiper blades, replace if necessary
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 251
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