power steering CHRYSLER CROSSFIRE 2007 1.G Owners Manual

wheel regains sufficient traction. The traction control
engages at approximately 24 mph (40 km/h), and
switches off at 50 mph (80 km/h).
If the ESP warning light begins to flash during accelera-
tion, ease up on the accelerator and apply as little throttle
as possible. Be sure to adapt your speed and driving to
the prevailing road conditions. When the ESP warning
light is illuminated continuously, the ESP is switched off.
To return to the enhanced vehicle stability offered by ESP,
press the lower half of the switch (the ESP warning light
in the speedometer dial goes out). Avoid spinning one
drive wheel. This may cause serious damage to the drive
train and is not covered by the DaimlerChrysler war-
ranty.
CAUTION!
If the vehicle is towed with the front axle raised, the
engine must be shut off (key in the ignition switch to
the OFF/LOCK or ACC position). Otherwise the ESP
will immediately be engaged and will apply the rear
wheel brakes.
Synchronizing ESP
If the power supply was interrupted (battery discon-
nected or discharged), the BAS/ESP malfunction indica-
tor light may be illuminated with the engine running. To
re-synchronize the ESP, and cancel the malfunction indi-
cator light, the steering angle sensor will need to be
recalibrated.
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position.
2. Rotate the steering wheel to the center position.
3. Rotate the steering wheel completely to the left, and
then rotate the steering wheel completely to the right.
4. Bring the steering wheel back to the center position.
5. The BAS/ESP malfunction indicator light will go out.
If the BAS/ESP malfunction indicator light is still illumi-
nated, the vehicle should be serviced at an authorized
dealer.
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 101
3

The seat belt indicator light will remain lit until the seat
belts are fastened.
15. Charging System Indicator Light
Should the charging system indicator light
fail to come on prior to starting when the key
is in the ignition switch in the ON/RUN
position, or should it fail to go out after
starting or during operation, it indicates a malfunction
that must be repaired immediately at an authorized
dealer.
If the charging system indicator light comes on, or a loss
of power steering assistance is noticeable while the
engine is running, this may indicate that the accessory
drive belt has broken. Should this condition occur, the
belt must be replaced before continuing to operate the
vehicle.
CAUTION!
The accessory drive belt also drives the water pump.
Operating the vehicle with a failed belt can cause
engine overheating and possible severe engine
damage.
16. High Beam Indicator Light
This indicator will illuminate when the
headlights are in the high beam setting.
To activate the high beams, push the multifunction
control lever past the point of resistance, toward the
instrument panel.
17. Electronic Digital Clock
A digital readout in the instrument cluster shows the
time in hours and minutes whenever the ignition switch
is in the ON/RUN or ACC position.
When the ignition switch is in the OFF/LOCK position,
timekeeping is accurately maintained.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 119
4

WARNING!
Do not drive the vehicle until you have properly
locked the steering column.
26. Check Engine Light
This light is part of an onboard diagnostic
system that monitors the emissions and en-
gine control systems. If a problem is detected in one of
these systems, the Check Engine light will come on.
The light comes on and stays on briefly as a bulb check
when the ignition is first turned on.
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap, or
poor fuel quality may illuminate the light after the engine
is started. Be sure the gas cap is tightened every time you
refuel.
If the Check Engine light remains on continuously and
the vehicle is driving normally, you may still drive the
vehicle. In most situations, the vehicle will not requiretowing. However, we recommend that you have the
system checked at an authorized dealer as soon as
possible.
If the vehicle is not driving normally, and the Check
Engine light flashes or remains on continuously, it is an
alert to serious conditions that could lead to loss of power
or severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle should
be serviced at an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
27. Brake Wear Indicator Light
With the key in the ignition and turned to the
ON/RUN position, the brake wear indicator
light comes on. The light goes out when the
engine is running.
If the indicator light comes on during braking, this
indicates the brake pads are worn down.
Have the brake system checked at your authorized dealer
as soon as possible.
124 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

NSynchronizing ESP....................161
NESP Control Switch....................161
NAnti-Lock Brake System (ABS)............162
NBrake Pad Break-In....................166
mPower Steering........................166
mTire Safety Information..................167
NTire Markings........................167
NTire Identification Number (TIN)..........170
NTire Loading And Tire Pressure...........171
mTiresÐGeneral Information...............175
NTire Pressure.........................175
NTire Inflation Pressures.................176
NRadial-Ply Tires......................178
NTire Spinning........................178
NTread Wear Indicators..................179
NReplacement Tires.....................179
NAlignment And Balance.................181
mTire Pressure Monitor System (If Equipped). . 181
NGeneral Information...................183
mTire Chains...........................183
mOriginal Equipment Tires................184
mSnow Tires...........................184
mTire Rotation Recommendations...........185
mFuel Requirements.....................186
NReformulated Gasoline.................187
NGasoline/Oxygenate Blends..............187
NMMT In Gasoline.....................188
NMaterials Added To Fuel................188
NSulfur In Gasoline.....................188
mAdding Fuel..........................189
NFuel Filler Cap (Gas Cap)...............189
mVehicle Loading.......................191
NRoof Luggage Rack....................191
mTrailer Towing........................192
144 STARTING AND OPERATING

Synchronizing ESP
If the power supply was interrupted (battery discon-
nected or discharged), the BAS/ESP malfunction indica-
tor light may be illuminated with the engine running. To
re-synchronize the ESP, and cancel the malfunction indi-
cator light, the steering angle sensor will need to be
recalibrated.
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position.
2. Rotate the steering wheel to the center position.
3. Rotate the steering wheel completely to the left, and
then rotate the steering wheel completely to the right.
4. Bring the steering wheel back to the center position.
5. The BAS/ESP malfunction indicator light will go out.
If the BAS/ESP malfunction indicator light is still illumi-
nated, the vehicle should be serviced at an authorized
dealer.
ESP Control switch
The ESP control switch is located in the center console.
When the ESP is switched off, the warning light in the
instrument cluster comes on. When the ESP is switched
on, the warning light goes out.
To improve the vehicle's traction when driving with
snow chains, or starting off in deep snow, sand, or gravel,
switch off the ESP by pressing the upper half of the ESP
switch. The ESP warning light will then be continuously
STARTING AND OPERATING 161
5

illuminated. With the ESP system switched off, the en-
gine torque reduction feature is cancelled. Therefore, the
enhanced vehicle stability offered by ESP is unavailable.
CAUTION!
Snow chains should never be used without the
recommended mud and snow (M+S) rated radial-ply
tires. Damage to your vehicle may result from such
usage.
ESP always operates under braking, even with the switch
in the OFF position.
If one drive wheel loses traction and begins to spin, the
ESP system will apply the brake at the affected wheel
until the wheel regains sufficient traction. The traction
control engages at approximately 24 mph (40 km/h), and
switches off at 50 mph (80 km/h).
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 ªpumpsº 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, steady
brake pedal pressure results in optimal braking power
while maintaining the ability to steer the vehicle.
162 STARTING AND OPERATING

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 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 pos-
sible. Damage to the power steering pump may occur.
166 STARTING AND OPERATING

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
m3.2L Engine..........................221
mOnboard Diagnostic System (OBD II).......222
mEmissions Inspection And Maintenance
Programs
............................223
mReplacement Parts.....................224
mDealer Service........................224
mMaintenance Procedures.................225
NEngine Oil..........................225
NIgnition Wiring System.................231
NCrankcase Emission Control System........231
NMaintenance-Free Battery................231
NAir Conditioner......................232NPower Steering Fluid...................233
NChassis Lubrication....................234
NBody Lubrication.....................235
NWindshield Wiper Blades................235
NWindshield Wiper Blade Replacement.......236
NWindshield Washer Reservoir.............236
NExhaust System......................237
NCooling System.......................238
NHoses And Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses.......241
NBrakes.............................242
NAutomatic Transmission................244
7

NOTE:If your air conditioning performance seems
lower than expected, check the front of the A/C con-
denser for an accumulation of dirt or insects. Clean with
a gentle water spray from behind the radiator and
through the condenser as required. Fabric front fascia
protectors may reduce air flow to the condenser, reducing
air conditioning performance.
WARNING!
The air conditioning system contains refrigerant un-
der high pressure. To avoid risk of personal injury or
damage to the system, adding refrigerant or any
repair requiring lines to be disconnected should be
done by an experienced repair person.
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling
The air conditioning system of your vehicle contains
R-134a, a refrigerant that does not deplete the ozone layer
in the upper atmosphere. The DaimlerChrysler Corpora-
tion recommends that air conditioning service be done by
facilities using refrigerant recycling and recovery equip-
ment that meets SAE standard J1991.
Power Steering Fluid
No power steering fluid service is required. The system is
filled at the factory with Pentosin CHF 11S. Steering noise
and reduced component life may result if an unapproved
fluid is used.
During scheduled maintenance, check the power steering
fluid level at the power steering fluid reservoir. Nor-
mally, it will not be necessary to add power steering
fluid.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 233
7

Before removing the reservoir cap, wipe the outside of
the cap and reservoir so that no dirt can fall into the
reservoir.
The power steering pump has a dipstick. Fluid level
should be maintained at the proper level indicated on the
dipstick. If the indicated level of power steering fluid is
low, see your authorized dealer. With a clean cloth, wipe
any spilled fluid from all surfaces.Chassis Lubrication
Front Suspension Ball Joints
There are two front suspension lower ball joints that are
permanently lubricated. Inspect these ball joints when-
ever under-vehicle service is done.
Steering Linkage
Inspect tie rod ends whenever the vehicle is serviced.
They are permanently lubricated and do not require
periodic lubrication.
Drive Shaft Universal Joints
Your vehicle has four constant velocity universal joints.
Periodic lubrication of these joints is not required. How-
ever, the joint boots should be inspected for external
leakage or damage when other maintenance is per-
formed.
If leakage or damage is evident, replace the universal
joint boot and grease immediately.
Continued operation could result in failure of the univer-
sal joint due to water and dirt contamination of the
grease. This would require complete replacement of the
joint assembly.
234 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE