winter tires CHRYSLER CROSSFIRE SRT 2005 1.G Owners Manual

system. As a result, it is possible that only partial engine
output will be available, and pressing the accelerator
pedal will require more effort.
If the BAS malfunctions, the brake system functions in
the usual manner, but without BAS.
With the ABS malfunctioning, the BAS and ESP will be
disabled. In this condition, both malfunction indicator
lights come on while the engine is running. If the
malfunction indicator light stays illuminated, have the
BAS and ESP checked at your authorized dealer as soon
as possible.
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
The ESP enhances directional control and reduces wheel-
spin under various driving conditions. When ESP is
active, engine torque is limited and the ESP warning light
starts to flash.In winter operation, the effectiveness of the ESP can be
enhanced by equipping the vehicle with DaimlerChrysler
recommended mud and snow (M+S) rated radial-ply
tires and/or snow chains.
STARTING AND OPERATING 141
5

if the temperature is very cold.ALWAYScheck the
pressure in your tires if the TPM lamp is illuminated.
Tire Chains
The RUD-maticDISC is the only tire chain system
approved for use on the Chrysler Crossfire.
Chains should only be used on the rear wheels and only
with the recommended winter mud and snow (M+S)
tires and wheels. Follow the manufacturer’s mounting
instructions.
Tire chains should only be driven on snow-covered roads
at speeds not to exceed 30 mph (48 km/h). Remove
chains as soon as possible when driving on roads without
snow.
When driving with tire chains, press the ESP control
switch to OFF.
CAUTION!
Damage to the vehicle may result if unapproved tire
chains are used.
Original Equipment Tires
Your vehicle is equipped with either sport performance
tires or all-season performance tires. The sport perfor-
mance tires offer the maximum road handling capability
in dry and wet weather conditions. The all-season per-
formance tires, while offering slightly less road handling
capability, are able to provide traction capability in snow
and ice conditions. Both types of tires are rated for high
speed operation. It is important that you know what type
of tires your vehicle is equipped with so that you
understand their traction and handling characteristics for
various road conditions. Replacement tires should be of
the same size and speed rating to continue to provide the
same level of performance you are accustomed to.
STARTING AND OPERATING 153
5

Snow Tires
Some areas of the country require the use of snow tires
during winter. See the recommended snow type winter
tire applications in this section.
WARNING!
Your vehicle may be equipped with sport perfor-
mance tires that are optimized for driving in dry and
wet weather conditions. However, these tires have
reduced traction capability in snow and ice. When
driving your Crossfire in these conditions with these
tires, you must take special care to maintain control
and avoid accidents. We recommend that you equip
your vehicle with“SNOW”or“ALL SEASON”tires
on all four wheels for driving in snowy and icy
conditions.
If you need snow tires, the recommended size for the
front and rear tires is the same size as the original
equipment front tires. This size tire on the rear allows the
use of tire chains on the rear wheels. Selection of this size
tire also requires the purchase of two additional wheels
with the same size specification as the original equip-
ment front wheels.
Snow tires may have a lower speed rating than factory
equipped tires and may not match the maximum vehicle
speed.
Snow tires should not be operated at sustained speeds
over 75 mph (120 km/h).
154 STARTING AND OPERATING

Tread Wear Indicators
Tread wear indicators are in the original equipment tires
to help you in determining when your tires should be
replaced.
These indicators are molded into the bottom of the tread
grooves and will appear as bands when the tread depth
becomes 1/16 inch (2 mm). When the indicators appear
in two or more adjacent grooves, the tire should be
replaced.
Many states have laws requiring tire replacement at this
point.
Replacement Tires
The tires on your new vehicle provide a balance of many
characteristics. They should be inspected regularly for
wear and correct cold tire inflation pressure. The manu-
facturer strongly recommends that you use tires equiva-
lent to the originals in size, quality and performance
when replacement is needed (see the paragraph on tread
wear indicators). Refer to the Tire and Loading Informa-
tion placard for the size designation of your tire. The
service description and load identification will be found
on the original equipment tire. Failure to use equivalent
replacement tires may adversely affect the safety, han-
dling, and ride of your vehicle. We recommend that you
contact your original equipment or an authorized tire
dealer with any questions you may have on tire specifi-
cations or capability.
Sport Performance (Y speed rating) tires and All-Season
Performance (W speed rating) tires
Front 225/40 ZR18............... 36psi(248 kPa)
Rear 255/35 ZR19................ 36psi(248 kPa)
Winter tires
Front 225/40 VR18 M+S........... 36psi(248 kPa)
Rear 225/40 VR18 M+S............ 42psi(290 kPa)
STARTING AND OPERATING 155
5