fuel DODGE AVENGER 2008 Owner's Guide

NOTE: If the gas cap is lost or damaged, be sure the
replacement cap is for use with this vehicle. CAUTION!² Damage to the fuel system or emission control
system could result from using an improper fuel
tank filler tube cap (gas cap).
² A poorly fitting gas cap could let impurities into
the fuel system and could cause the
² A poorly fitting gas cap may cause the Malfunc-
tion Indicator Light to turn on.
² To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not ªtop
offº the fuel tank after filling. When the fuel
nozzle ªclicksº or shuts off, the fuel tank is full.Fuel Filler Door Features STARTING AND OPERATING 329
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WARNING!² Never have any smoking materials lit in or near
the vehicle when the gas cap is removed or the
tank filled.
² Never add fuel when the engine is running. This is
in violation of most state and federal fire regula-
tions and doing so will cause the malfunction
indicator light to turn on.
² A fire may result if gasoline is pumped into a
portable container that is inside of a vehicle. You
could be burned. Always place gas containers on
the ground while filling.
NOTE:
² Tighten the gas cap until you hear a ªclickingº sound.
This is an indication that the gas cap is tightened
properly. The Malfunction Indicator Light in the in-
strument cluster may turn on if the gas cap is not secured properly. Make sure that the gas cap is tight-
ened each time the vehicle is refueled.
² When the fuel nozzle ªclicksº or shuts off, the fuel
tank is full.
LOOSE FILLER CAP MESSAGE
If the vehicles diagnostic system determines that the fuel
filler cap in loose, improperly installed, or damaged, a
ªgASCAPº message will be displayed in the instrument
cluster. Tighten the gas cap until a ªclickingº sound is
heard. This is an indication that the gas cap is properly
tightened. Press the trip odometer reset button to turn off
the message. If the problem persists, the message will
appear the next time the vehicle is started. This might
indicate a damaged cap. If the problem is detected twice
in a row, the system will turn on the Malfunction
Indicator Light (MIL). Resolving the problem will turn
the MIL light off.330 STARTING AND OPERATING

Automatic Transaxle
The DRIVE range can be selected when towing. How-
ever, if frequent shifting occurs while in this range, third
gear for a four-speed automatic and the fifth gear for a
six-speed AutoStick t should be selected.
NOTE: Using third or fifth instead of DRIVE while
operating the vehicle under heavy operating conditions,
will improve performance and extend transaxle life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat build-up. This ac-
tion will also provide better engine braking.
If you REGULARLY TOW a trailer for more than 45
minutes of continuous operation, then change the auto-
matic transaxle fluid and filter according to the interval
specified for ªpolice, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer tow-
ingº in the ªMaintenance Scheduleº in this manual.
NOTE: Check the four-speed automatic transaxle fluid
level before towing. AutoStick t sixÐspeed transmission is sealed and the fluid level cannot be checked. See your
authorized dealership service center for assistance.
Electronic Speed Control Ð (If Equipped)
² Don't use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
² When using the speed control, if you experience speed
drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until
you can get back to cruising speed.
² Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to
maximize fuel efficiency.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transaxle overheating,
take the following actions:
² City Driving
When stopped for short periods of time, put transaxle in
neutral and increase engine idle speed.344 STARTING AND OPERATING

11. Check the tire pressure as soon as possible. Correct
pressure as required.
JUMP-STARTING PROCEDURES DUE TO A LOW
BATTERY
Jump-starting remote battery terminals are located under
the hood.
The battery is stored between the left front headlight
assembly and the left front wheel splash shield. Access is
through the splash shield. WARNING! ² Take care to avoid the radiator cooling fan whenever the
hood is raised. It can start anytime the ignition switch is
on. You can be hurt by the fan.
² Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get it
started. Vehicles equipped with an automatic transaxle
cannot be started this way. Unburned fuel could enter
the catalytic converter and once the engine has started,
ignite and damage the converter and vehicle. If the
vehicle has a discharged battery, booster cables may be
used to obtain a start from another vehicle. This type of
start can be dangerous if done improperly, so follow this
procedure carefully.
² Do not use a booster battery or any other booster source
with an output that exceeds 12 volts.
² During cold weather when temperatures are below
freezing point, electrolyte in a discharged battery may
freeze. Do not attempt jump-starting because the battery
could rupture or explode. The battery temperature must
be brought up above freezing point before attempting
jump-start.358 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLECONTENTS m 2.4L Engine Compartment ................368
m 2.7L Engine Compartment ................369
m 3.5L Engine Compartment ................370
m Onboard Diagnostic System Ð OBD II ........371
N Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message ............371
m Emissions Inspection And Maintenance
Programs .............................372
m Replacement Parts ......................373
m Authorized Dealer Service ................374 m Maintenance Procedures ..................374
N Engine Oil ..........................374
N Engine Oil Filter ......................378
N Drive Belt ...........................378
N Spark Plugs .........................379
N Engine Air Cleaner Filter ................379
N Catalytic Converter ....................379
N Maintenance-Free Battery ................381
N Air Conditioner Maintenance .............382
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N A/C Air Filter Ð If Equipped ............383
N Power Steering .......................385
N Front Suspension .....................385
N Steering Linkage ......................386
N Body Lubrication .....................386
N Windshield Wiper Blades ................386
N Windshield Washers ...................387
N Exhaust System ......................387
N Cooling System .......................388
N Hoses And Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses .......394
N Fuel System .........................394
N Brake System ........................394
N Automatic Transaxle ...................397 N Front And Rear Wheel Bearings ...........400
N Appearance Care And Protection From
Corrosion ...........................400
N Cleaning Center Console Cupholders .......405
m Fuses Ð Totally Integrated Power Module
(TIPM) ..............................406
m Vehicle Storage ........................411
m Replacement Bulbs ......................411
m Bulb Replacement ......................412
N Headlight Bulb Replacement .............412
N Fog Lights ..........................415
N Taillights, Rear Turn Signals And Backup Lights Ð
Replacement .........................416
N License Plate Light Ð Rear ..............418366 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM Ð OBD II
Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated Onboard
Diagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitors
the performance of the emissions, engine, and automatic
transaxle control systems. When these systems are oper-
ating properly, your vehicle will provide excellent per-
formance and fuel economy, as well as maintaining
engine emissions well within current government regu-
lations.
If any of these systems require service, the OBD II
system will turn on the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL). It will also store diagnostic codes
and other information to assist an authorized service
technician in making repairs. Although your vehicle will
usually be drivable and not need towing, see your
authorized dealer for service as soon as possible. CAUTION!² Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause
further damage to the emission control system. It
could also affect fuel economy and drivability. The
vehicle must be serviced before any emissions
tests can be performed.
² If the MIL is flashing while the engine is running,
severe catalytic converter damage and power loss
will soon occur. Immediate service is required.
LOOSE FUEL FILLER CAP MESSAGE
After fuel is added, the vehicle diagnostic system can
determine if the fuel filler cap is possibly loose or
improperly installed. A ªgASCAPº message will be dis-
played in the instrument cluster. Tighten the gas cap until
a 9 clicking 9 sound is heard. This is an indication that the
gas cap is properly tightened. Press the Trip Odometer MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 371
7

AUTHORIZED DEALER SERVICE
Your authorized dealer has the qualified service person-
nel, special tools, and equipment to perform all service
operations in an expert manner. Service manuals are
available which include detailed service information for
your vehicle. Refer to these service manuals before
attempting any procedure yourself.
NOTE: Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems can result in civil penalties being assessed
against you.
WARNING!You can be badly injured working on or around a
motor vehicle. Only do service work for which you
have the knowledge and the proper equipment. If you
have any doubt about your ability to perform a service
job, take your vehicle to a competent mechanic. MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
The pages that follow contain the required maintenance
services determined by the engineers who designed your
vehicle.
Besides the maintenance items for which there are fixed
maintenance intervals, there are other items that should
operate satisfactorily without periodic maintenance.
However, if a malfunction of these items does occur, it
could adversely affect the engine or vehicle performance.
These items should be inspected if a malfunction is
observed or suspected.
ENGINE OIL
Checking Oil Level
To assure proper engine lubrication, the engine oil must
be maintained at the correct level. Check the oil level at
regular intervals, such as every fuel stop.374 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Engine Oil Viscosity (SAE Grade) Ð 2.4L and 2.7L
Engines
SAE 5W-20 engine oil is recommended for all operating
temperatures. This engine oil improves low temperature
starting and vehicle fuel economy. Your engine oil filler
cap also shows the recommended engine oil viscosity for
your vehicle.
The engine oil filler cap also shows the recommended
engine oil viscosity for your engine. For information on
engine oil filler cap location, refer to the ªEngine Com-
partmentº illustration in this section.
Lubricants which do not have both the engine oil certi-
fication mark and the correct SAE viscosity grade num-
ber should not be used.
Engine Oil Viscosity (SAE Grade) Ð 3.5L Engine
SAE 10W-30 engine oil is preferred for all operating
temperatures. The engine oil filler cap also shows the
recommended engine oil viscosity for your vehicle. Lubricants which do not have both, the engine oil certi-
fication mark and the correct SAE viscosity grade num-
ber should not be used.
The engine oil filler cap also shows the recommended
engine oil viscosity for your engine. For information on
engine oil filler cap location, refer to the ªEngine Com-
partmentº illustration in this section.
Lubricants which do not have both, the engine oil certi-
fication mark and the correct SAE viscosity grade num-
ber should not be used.
Synthetic Engine Oils
You may use synthetic engine oils provided the recom-
mended oil quality requirements are met, and the recom-
mended maintenance intervals for oil and filter changes
are followed. MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 377
7

SPARK PLUGS
Spark plugs must fire properly to assure engine perfor-
mance and emission control. New plugs should be in-
stalled at the specified mileage. The entire set should be
replaced if there is any malfunction due to a faulty spark
plug. Refer to ªFluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Partsº in
this section for the proper type of spark plug for use in
your vehicle.
ENGINE AIR CLEANER FILTER
Refer to the ªMaintenance Scheduleº in Section 8 of this
manual for engine air cleaner filter maintenance inter-
vals.
NOTE: Be sure to follow the ªdusty or off-road condi-
tionsº maintenance interval if applicable. WARNING!The air induction system (air cleaner, hoses, etc.) can
provide a measure of protection in the case of engine
backfire. Do not remove the air induction system (air
cleaner, hoses, etc.) unless such removal is necessary
for repair or maintenance. Make sure that no one is
near the engine compartment before starting the
vehicle with the air induction system (air cleaner,
hoses, etc.) removed. Failure to do so can result in
serious personal injury.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
The catalytic converter requires the use of unleaded fuel
only. Leaded gasoline will destroy the effectiveness of the
catalyst as an emission control device. MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 379
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