towing DODGE AVENGER 2012 2.G User Guide

If you are the first
registered retail owner of
your vehicle, you may obtain a
complimentary printed copy
of the Owner’s Manual,
Navigation/Media Center
Manuals or Warranty Booklet
by calling 1-800-423-6343 (U.S.)
or 1-800-387-1143 (Canada) or
by contacting your dealer.
Driving after drinking can lead to an accident. Your
perceptions are less sharp, your reflexes are slower, and
your judgment is impaired when you have been drinking.
Never drink and then drive.
WARNING!
Drunken driving is one of the most frequent causes
of accidents. Your driving ability can be seriously
impaired with blood alcohol levels far below the legal
minimum. If you are drinking, don’t drive. Ride with a
designated non-drinking driver, call a cab, a friend, or
use public transportation.
dRIvING ANd AlCOhOl
The driver’s primary responsibility is the safe operation of the
vehicle. Driving while distracted can result in loss of vehicle
control, resulting in a collision and personal injury. Chrysler
Group LLC strongly recommends that the driver use extreme
caution when using any device or feature that may take their
attention off the road. Use of any electrical devices such as cell
phones, computers, portable radios, vehicle navigation or other
devices by the driver while the vehicle is moving is dangerous
and could lead to a serious collision. Texting while driving is
also dangerous and should never be done while the vehicle is
moving. If you find yourself unable to devote your full attention
to vehicle operation, pull off the road to a safe location and
stop your vehicle. Some States or Provinces prohibit the use of
cellular telephones or texting while driving. It is always the
driver’s responsibility to comply with all local laws.
This User Guide is intended to familiarize you with the important
features of your vehicle. The DVD enclosed contains your Owner’s
Manual, Navigation/Media Center Manuals, Warranty Booklets, Tire
Warranty and 24-Hour Towing Assistance (new vehicles
purchased in the U.S.) or Roadside Assistance (new vehicles
purchased in Canada) in electronic format. We hope you find it
useful. Replacement DVD kits may be purchased by visiting
www.techauthority.com. Copyright 2011 Chrysler Group LLC.
IMPORTANT
dOdGe.COM
This guide has been prepared to help you get quickly acquainted with you\
r new Dodge
and to provide a convenient reference source for common questions. Howev\
er, it is not
a substitute for your Owner’s Manual.
For complete operational instructions, maintenance procedures and import\
ant safety
messages, please consult your Owner’s Manual, Navigation/Media Center Manuals,
Multimedia User Manual and other Warning Labels in your vehicle.
Not all features shown in this guide may apply to your vehicle. For addi\
tional information
on accessories to help personalize your vehicle, visit www.mopar.com or your local
Dodge dealer.
918913_12c_Dodge_Avenger_UserGuide_121411.indd 212/14/11 11:08 AM

INTRODUCTION/WELCOMEWelcome From Chrysler Group LLC....2
CONTROLS AT A GLANCEDriver Cockpit...............4
Instrument Cluster .............6
GETTING STARTEDKeyFob...................8
Remote Start................8
Theft Alarm .................9
Seat Belt ..................9
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) —
Air Bags ..................10
Child Restraints .............11
Front Seats ................13
Rear Seats ................15
Heated Seats ...............15
Tilt / Telescoping Steering Column ....16
OPERATING YOUR VEHICLEEngine Break-In Recommendations . . . 17
Turn Signal/Lights Lever.........17
Wiper/Washer Lever ...........19
Speed Control ..............19
Manual Climate Controls .........21
Automatic Temperature Controls (ATC).. 21
Power Sunroof ..............22
Wind Buffeting ..............23
ELECTRONICSYour Vehicle's Sound System ......24
Media Center 130 (Sales Code RES) . . 26
Media Center 130 With Satellite Radio
(Sales Code RES + RSC) .........28
Media Center 430/430N (Sales Code
RBZ/RHB) ................30
Media Center 730N (Sales Code RHR).. 39Sirius XM™ Satellite Radio/Travel Link.. 48
Steering Wheel Audio Controls ......52
iPod
®/USB/MP3 Control .........52
Uconnect™ Phone ............53
Uconnect™ Voice Command .......56
Bluetooth
®Streaming Audio .......58
Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC) ...................58
Programmable Features .........59Universal Garage Door Opener
(HomeLink
®) ...............60
Power Outlet ...............62
UTILITYTrailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer
Weight Ratings) ..............64
Recreational Towing (Behind Motorhome,
Etc.) ....................65
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES24-Hour Towing Assistance .......66
Instrument Cluster Warning Lights . . . 66
If Your Engine Overheats .........70
Jacking And Tire Changing ........71
Battery Location .............76
Jump-Starting ..............76
Shift Lever Override ...........79
Towing A Disabled Vehicle ........80
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle .........81
Event Data Recorder (EDR) .......82
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLEOpening The Hood............83
Engine Compartment ...........84
Fluids And Capacities ..........86
Maintenance Chart ............88
Fuses ...................91
Tire Pressures ...............93
Exterior Bulbs ..............94
Wheel And Wheel Trim Care .......94
CONSUMER ASSISTANCEChrysler Group LLC Customer Center . . 95Chrysler Canada Inc. Customer Center.. 95
Assistance For The Hearing Impaired . . 95
Publications Ordering ..........95
Reporting Safety Defects In The 50 United
States And Washington, D.C. ......96
MOPAR ACCESSORIESAuthentic Accessories By MOPAR®...97
INDEX..................98
FAQ (How To?)Frequently Asked Questions...... 101
TABLE OF CONTENTS

TRAILER TOWING WEIGHTS (MAXIMUM TRAILER WEIGHT RATINGS)The following chart provides the maximum trailer weight ratings towable for your given drivetrain.
Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings
Engine/Transmission Max. Frontal AreaMax. GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.) Max. Trailer Tongue Wt.
1
2.4L/Auto11 sq ft (1.0 sq.m) (See Note
2) 1,000 lbs (450 kg) 100 lbs (45 kg)
3.6L/Auto 22 sq.ft. (2.0 sq.m)1,000 lbs (450 kg)100 lbs (45 kg)
Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds.
1The trailer tongue weight must be considered as part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo, and it should never exceed the
weight referenced on the Tire and Loading Information placard.2Enclosed trailers or open utility trailers with front shields/guards are not recommended for use with four-cylinder engines with an
automatic transmission. Please see your authorized dealer for additional information.
CAUTION!
Towing a trailer with a larger than recommended frontal area could cause the engine to overheat or cause severe engine
damage under extreme conditions.
UTILITY
64

RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME,
ETC.)
Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle
Towing ConditionWheels OFF the
Ground All Models
Flat Tow NONE
NOT ALLOWED
Dolly Tow Front
OK
Rear NOT ALLOWED
On Trailer ALL OK
Recreational Towing – All Models
• Recreational towing is allowed ONLY if the front wheels are OFF the ground. This
may be accomplished using a tow dolly or vehicle trailer. If using a tow dolly, follow
this procedure:
• Properly secure the dolly to the tow vehicle, following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.
• Drive the front wheels onto the tow dolly.
• Firmly apply the parking brake. Place the transmission in PARK.
• Properly secure the front wheels to the dolly, following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.
CAUTION!
• DO NOT flat tow this vehicle. Damage to the drivetrain will result.
• Towing this vehicle in violation of the above requirements can cause severetransmission damage. Damage from improper towing is not covered under the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
UTILITY
65

24-HOUR TOWING ASSISTANCE
• Dial toll-free 1-800-521-2779 or 1-800-363-4869 for Canadian residents.
• Provide your name, vehicle identification number and license plate number.
• Provide your location, including telephone number, from which you are calling.
• Briefly describe the nature of the problem and answer a few simple questions.
• You will be given the name of the service provider and an estimated time of arrival.If you feel you are in an “unsafe situation”, please let us know. With your consent,
we will contact local police or safety authorities.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WARNING LIGHTS
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light
• If the “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” comes on continuously withthe engine running, a malfunction has been detected in the ESC system. If this
light remains on after several ignition cycles, and the vehicle has been driven
several miles (kilometers) at speeds greater than 30 mph (48 km/h), we
recommend you do not operate the vehicle. Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
• The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” starts to flash as soon as the tires lose traction and the ESC system becomes active. If the light begins to flash
during acceleration, 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.
The light also flashes when TCS is active. To improve the vehicle's traction when
starting off in deep snow, sand or gravel, it may be desirable to switch the ESC
system to Partial Off mode by momentarily pressing the ESC Off
switch.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
• Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly, when coldand inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on
the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a
different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation
pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those
tires.)
• As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or
more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire
pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as
possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly
under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.
Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the
vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
• IF THE LIGHT STARTS FLASHING INDICATING A LOW TIRE PRESSURE, ADJUST THE AIR
PRESSURE IN THE LOW TIRE TO THE AIR PRESSURE SHOWN ON THE VEHICLE PLACARD
OR TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE LABEL LOCATED ON THE DRIVER'S DOOR. NOTE: AFTER
INFLATION, THE VEHICLE MAY NEED TO BE DRIVEN FOR 20 MINUTES BEFORE THE
FLASHING LIGHT WILL TURN OFF.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
66

WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or others could be badly burned
by steam or boiling coolant. You may want to call an authorized service center
for service if your vehicle overheats.
BRAKE- Brake Warning Light
• The Brake Warning light illuminates when there is either a system malfunction orthe parking brake is applied. If the light is on and the parking brake is not applied,
it indicates a possible brake hydraulic malfunction, brake booster problem or an
Anti-Lock Brake System problem.
• Please have your vehicle serviced immediately.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is dangerous. Part of the brake
system may have failed. It will take longer to stop the vehicle. You could have a
collision. Have the vehicle checked immediately.
- Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
• Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap, poor fuel quality, etc., may illuminate the MIL after engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light
stays on through several typical driving cycles. In most situations, the vehicle will
drive normally and not require towing.
• If the MIL flashes when the engine is running, serious conditions may exist that could lead to immediate loss of power or severe catalytic converter damage. We
recommend you do not operate the vehicle. Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
- Charging System Light
• This light shows the status of the electrical charging system. If the chargingsystem light remains on, it means that the vehicle is experiencing a problem with
the charging system.
• We recommend you do not continue driving if the charging system light is on. Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
- Oil Pressure Warning Light
• This light indicates low engine oil pressure. If the light turns on while driving, stopthe vehicle and shut off the engine as soon as possible. A chime will sound for four
minutes when this light turns on.
• We recommend you do not operate the vehicle or engine damage will occur. Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
68

- Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) Light
• This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).
• If the light is not on during starting, stays on, or turns on while driving, werecommend you drive to the nearest service center and have the vehicle serviced
immediately.
- Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light
• This light informs you of a problem with the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)system.
• If a problem is detected, the light will come on while the engine is running. Cycle the ignition when the vehicle has completely stopped and the shift lever is placed
in the PARK position; the light should turn off.
• If the light remains lit with the engine running, your vehicle will usually be drivable; however, see an authorized service center immediately. If the light is
flashing when the engine is running, immediate service is required and you may
experience reduced performance, an elevated/rough idle or engine stall and your
vehicle may require towing.
- Transmission Temperature Warning Light
• This light indicates that there is excessive transmission fluid temperature thatmight occur with severe usage such as trailer towing. If this light turns on, stop the
vehicle and run the engine at idle, with the transmission in NEUTRAL, until the
light turns off. Once the light turns off, you may continue to drive normally.
- Air Bag Warning Light
• If the light is not on during starting, stays on, or turns on while driving, have thevehicle serviced by an authorized service center immediately.
Fuel Cap/Loose Gas Cap Message
• If a “gas cap” message (shown as gASCAP) appears, tighten the gas cap until a“clicking” sound is heard.
• Press the odometer reset button to turn the message off.
• If the message continues to appear for more than three days after tightening the gas cap, see your authorized service center.
Oil Change Indicator
Message
• If an “oil change” message (shown as CHANgE OIL) appears and a single chime sounds, it is time for your next required oil change.
Resetting The Light After Servicing
• Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position (do not start engine).
• Fully depress the accelerator pedal three times within 10 seconds.
• Turn the ignition switch to the OFF/LOCK position.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
69

IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
• In any of the following situations, you can reduce the potential for overheating bytaking the appropriate action.
• On the highways — slow down.
• In city traffic — while stopped, shift transmission into NEUTRAL, but do not increase engine idle speed.
NOTE: There are steps that you can take to slow down an impending overheat
condition:
• If your air conditioner (A/C) is on, turn it off. The A/C system adds heat to the engine cooling system and turning the A/C off can help remove this heat.
• You can also turn the Temperature Control to maximum heat, the Mode Control to floor and the Fan Control to high. This allows the heater core to act as a supplement
to the radiator and aids in removing heat from the engine cooling system.
• If the temperature reading does not return to normal, turn the engine off immediately.
• We recommend that you do not operate the vehicle or engine damage will occur. Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot cooling system could damage your vehicle. If the temperature
gauge reads HOT (H), pull over and stop the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the
air conditioner turned off until the pointer drops back into the normal range. If
the pointer remains on HOT (H), and you hear continuous chimes, turn the
engine off immediately, and call for service.
WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam
from your radiator. If you see or hear steam coming from under the hood, do not
open the hood until the radiator has had time to cool. Never try to open a
cooling system pressure cap when the radiator or coolant bottle is hot.
Engine Oil Overheating — 2.4L Gas
• On hot days the engine oil temperature may become too hot during sustained high-speed driving or if towing a trailer up long grades. If this happens, a HOTOIL
message will flash in the odometer and the vehicle speed will be reduced to
48 mph (77 km/h) maximum until the engine oil temperature is reduced.
NOTE: Although the maximum vehicle speed is reduced to 48 mph (77 km/h), you may
reduce vehicle speed further as needed. Once the engine oil temperature is reduced,
you may continue to drive normally.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
70

TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLEModelFlat Towing (all four
wheels on the ground)Flatbed Towing (all four
wheels suspended OFF the
ground)Front Wheels Raised, Rear
Wheels on the Ground
Rear Wheels Raised, Front
Wheels on the Ground
FWD Without a Key NOT Permitted
Recommended Method May Be Used NOT Permitted without a
front end dolly
FWD With a Key Shift lever must be in
*NEUTRAL. The distance
to be traveled must not
exceed 15 mi (25 km),
and the towing speed
must not exceed 25 mph
(40 km/h).Recommended Method May Be Used
NOT Permitted without a
front end dolly
*To shift to NEUTRAL without battery power, firmly apply the parking brake. Turn the key to ON/RUN. Remove the cupholder liner. Insert
a key, screwdriver or similar object into the front hole, then push and hold the manual override release lever forward. While holding the
release lever forward, move the shift lever from PARK to NEUTRAL. Release the override.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
80

MAINTENANCE CHART
Miles:
8,000 16,000 24,000 32,000 40,000 48,000 56,000 64,000 72,000 80,000 88,000 96,000 104,000
Or Months: 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 60 66 72 78
Or Kilometers:
13,000 26,000 39,000 52,000 65,000 78,000 91,000 104,000 117,000 130,000 143,000 156,000 169,000
Change the engine oil and filter. XXXXXXXXXXXXX
Rotate the tires, rotate at the first sign of irregular
wear, even if it occurs before scheduled mainte-
nance. XXXXXXXXXXXXX
If using your vehicle for any of the following: dusty or
off-road conditions. Inspect the engine air cleaner
filter; replace if necessary. XXX
Inspect the brake linings; replace if necessary. X X XXXX
Replace the air conditioning filter. X X XXXX
Inspect the CV joints. XXXX
Inspect the exhaust system. X XXXX
Inspect the front suspension, tie rod ends and boot
seals for cracks or leaks and all parts for damage,
wear, improper looseness or end play; replace if nec-
essary. XXXXXX
Replace the engine air cleaner filter. X X X
Replace the spark plugs (2.4L Engines) X X X
Replace the spark plugs (2.4L PZEV Engines Only) X
Replace the spark plugs (3.6L Engines) X
Adjust parking brake on all vehicles equipped with
four wheel disc brakes. XXX
Change the automatic transmission fluid & filter if
using your vehicle for any of the following: police,
taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing. X
Inspect and replace PCV valve if necessary. X
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
88