towing DODGE CALIBER 2007 1.G Owner's Manual

TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE
With Ignition Key
Automatic And Manual Transaxle
Front-wheel-drive vehicles must have the front wheels
elevated; all-wheel-drive vehicles must be hauled on a
flatbed truck.
All Transaxles
CAUTION!
If the vehicle being towed requires steering, the
ignition switch must be in the ACCESSORY posi-
tion, not in the LOCK position.
Do not attempt to use sling type equipment when
towing. When securing vehicle to flat bed truck, do
not attach to front or rear suspension components.
Damage to your vehicle may result from improper
towing.
If it is necessary to use the accessories while being towed
(wipers, defrosters, etc.), the key must be in the ON
position, not the ACCESSORY position. Make certain the
transaxle remains in NEUTRAL.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES 275
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Without The Ignition Key
Special care must be taken when the vehicle is towed
with the ignition in the LOCK position. A dolly should be
used under the front wheels if the rear wheels are raised.
Proper towing equipment is necessary to prevent dam-
age to the vehicle.
Battery power is required to release the brake/
transmission interlock system. There is a removable plug
in the right side of the shifter housing that allows you to
insert your finger to override the system.
Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle (Flat
Towing With All Four Wheels On The Ground)
CAUTION!
DO NOT flat tow this vehicle. Damage to the driv-
etrain will result.
276 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — 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 engine emissions
well within current government regulations.
If any of these systems require service, the OBD II system
will turn on the “Malfunction Indicator Light.” It will
also store diagnostic codes and other information to
assist your service technician in making repairs. Al-
though your vehicle will usually be drivable and not
need towing, see your dealer for service as soon as
possible.CAUTION!
•Prolonged driving with the “Malfunction Indica-
tor Light” on could cause further damage to the
emission control system. It could also affect fuel
economy and driveability. The vehicle must be
serviced before any emissions tests can be per-
formed.
•If the “Malfunction Indicator Light” is flashing
while the engine is running, severe catalytic con-
verter 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 loose or improperly
installed. A GASCAP message will be displayed in the
instrument cluster. Tighten the gas cap until aclicking
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.
280 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

•Trailer towing.
•Taxi, Police or delivery service (commercial service).
•Off-Road or desert operation.
NOTE:IfANYof these apply to you then change your
engine oil every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months,
whichever comes first, and follow schedule “B—All
Engines” of theMaintenance Schedulessection of this
manual.
If none of these apply to you, then change your engine
oil at every interval shown on schedule “A” in the
maintenance schedule section of this manual.
NOTE:
Under no circumstances should oil change
intervals exceed 6000 miles (10 000 km) or 6 months
whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Selection (Gasoline Engines)
For best performance and maximum protection for all
engines under all types of operating conditions, the
manufacturer recommends engine oils that are API Cer-
tified and meet the requirements of DaimlerChrysler
Material Standard MS-6395.
American Petroleum Institute (API) Engine Oil
Identification Symbol
This symbol means that the oil has
been certified by the American
Petroleum Institute (API). The
manufacturer only recommends
API Certified engine oils.
Engine Oil Viscosity (SAE Grade)
SAE 5W-20 engine oil is recommended for all operating
temperatures. This engine oil improves low tempera-
ture starting and vehicle fuel economy. Your engine oil
filler cap also states the recommended engine oil vis-
cosity grade for your engine.
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
There are a number of engine oils being promoted as
either synthetic or semi-synthetic. If you chose to use
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 285
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In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning
engine operation, a scorching odor may suggest severe
and abnormal catalyst overheating. If this occurs, stop
the vehicle, turn off the engine and allow it to cool.
Service, including a tune up to manufacturers specifica-
tions, should be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalyst damage:
•Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the ignition
when the transaxle is in gear and the vehicle is in
motion.
•Do not try to start the engine by pushing or towing the
vehicle.
•Do not idle the engine with any spark plug wires
disconnected for prolonged period.
Crankcase Emission Control System
Proper operation of this system depends on freedom
from sticking or plugging due to deposits. As vehicle
mileage builds up, the PCV valve and passages may
accumulate deposits. If a valve is not working properly,
replace it with a new valve. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO
CLEAN THE OLD PCV VALVE!Check ventilation hose for indication of damage or
plugging deposits. Replace if necessary.
Fuel Filter
A plugged fuel filter can cause hard starting or limit the
speed at which a vehicle can be driven. Should an
excessive amount of dirt accumulate in the fuel tank,
frequent filter replacement may be necessary. The fuel
filters are located inside the fuel tank. See your dealer for
service.
Air Cleaner Element (Filter)
Under normal driving conditions, replace the filter at the
intervals shown on Schedule “A”. If, however, you drive
the vehicle frequently under dusty or severe conditions,
the filter element should be inspected periodically and
replaced if necessary at the intervals shown on Schedule
“B”.
288 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
The “Scheduled” maintenance services, listed inbold
typemust be done at the times or mileages specified to
assure the continued proper functioning of the emission
control system. These, and all other maintenance services
included in this manual, should be done to provide best
vehicle performance and reliability. More frequent main-
tenance may be needed for vehicles in severe operating
conditions such as dusty areas and very short trip
driving.
Inspection and service also should be done any time a
malfunction is suspected.
NOTE:Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the
emission control devices and systems on your vehicle
may be performed by any automotive repair establish-
ment or individual using any automotive part, which has
been certified pursuant to U.S. EPA or, in the State of
California, California Air Resources Board regulations.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
There are two maintenance schedules that show the
requiredservice for your vehicle.
First is Schedule“B”. It is for vehicles that are operated
under the conditions that are listed below and at the
beginning of the schedule.
•Day or night temperatures are below 32 °F (0 °C).
•Stop and go driving.
•Extensive engine idling.
•Driving in dusty conditions.
•Short trips of less than 10 miles (16 km).
•More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high
speeds during hot weather, above 90 °F (32 °C).
•Trailer towing.
•Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial service).
•Off-road or desert operation.
•Heavy Loading
320 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Schedule “B”
Follow schedule “B” if you usually operate your vehicle
under one or more of the following conditions.
•Day or night temperatures are below 32 °F (0 °C).
•Stop and go driving.
•Extensive engine idling.
•Driving in dusty conditions.
•Short trips of less than 10 miles (16 km).
•More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high
speeds during hot weather, above 90 °F (32 °C).
•Trailer towing.
•Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial service).
•Off-road or desert operation.
•Heavy Loading
NOTE:IfANYof these apply to you then change your
engine oil every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months,
whichever comes first and follow schedule “B” of the
Maintenance Schedulessection of this manual.
NOTE:IfANYof these apply to you then change your
coolant every 102,000 miles (170 000 km) or 60 months,
whichever comes first and follow schedule “B” of the
Maintenance Schedulessection of this manual.
SCHEDULE “B” 323
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Engine Oil.......................... 286
Door Locks............................ 14
Door Locks, Automatic................... 16
Door Opener, Garage.................... 112
Downshifting.......................... 217
DriveBelts ............................ 286
Driver’s Seat Back Tilt.................... 96
Driving
On Slippery Surfaces.................. 224
Economy............................. 213
Electric Remote Mirrors................... 70
Electrical Power Outlets.................. 124
Electronic Brake Control System............ 118
Brake Assist System................... 118
Electronic Stability Program............. 119
Traction Control System................ 118
Electronic Speed Control (Cruise Control)..... 109
Electronic Stability Program (ESP).......... 119
Electronic Vehicle Information
Center (EVIC)......................... 152
Emergency, In Case of
Jacking............................. 268Jump Starting........................ 272
Towing ............................. 275
Emission Control System Maintenance....281,320
Engine............................... 279
Break-In Recommendations............... 61
Checking Oil Level.................... 283
Cooling ............................ 294
Exhaust Gas Caution.................. 251
Fuel Requirements.................... 248
Jump Starting........................ 272
Oil ..........................283,316,317
Oil Change Interval................... 284
Oil Filler Cap.....................279,285
Oil Filter............................ 317
OilSelection ......................... 285
Oil Synthetic......................... 285
Overheating......................... 266
Temperature Gauge................... 144
Enhanced Accident Response Feature......... 50
Event Data Recorder..................... 52
Exhaust Gas Caution............. 27,61,251,293
Exhaust System........................ 293
INDEX 349
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Gasoline (Fuel).....................248,316
Gasoline, Reformulated.................. 249
Gauges
Coolant Temperature.................. 144
Fuel............................... 144
Odometer........................... 147
Tachometer.......................... 144
Gearshift............................. 212
General Information................. 13,93,246
General Maintenance.................... 283
Glass Cleaning......................... 306
Glove Compartment..................... 134
GrossAxleWeightRating ................. 255
GrossVehicleWeightRating ............254,255
Hands-Free Phone (UConnect™)............ 72
Hazard Warning Flasher.................. 266
Head Restraints......................... 96
Headlights............................ 311
Cleaning............................ 306
High Beam.......................105,150
High Beam/Low Beam Select Switch...... 105
Passing............................. 106Replacing........................... 311
Switch ............................. 103
Heated Seats........................... 97
Hitches
TrailerTowing ....................... 256
HomeLink
(Garage Door Opener) Transmitter.......... 112
Hood Release.......................... 101
Hoses............................... 298
Ignition................................ 9
Key ................................. 9
Ignition Key Removal..................... 9
Immobilizer (Sentry Key)................ 11,25
InfantRestraint ......................... 54
Information Center, Vehicle............... 152
Inside Rearview Mirror................... 69
Instrument Cluster...................142,144
Instrument Panel and Controls............. 141
Instrument Panel Cover.................. 307
Instrument Panel Lens Cleaning............ 307
Integrated Power Module (Fuses)........... 307
Interior Appearance Care................. 305
INDEX 351
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Sunroof............................ 122
Transfer Unit........................ 303
Windows............................ 27
Power Steering Fluid.................... 318
Power Transfer Unit..................... 303
Pregnant Women and Seat Belts............. 39
Preparation for Jacking................... 269
Pretensioners
Seat Belts............................ 37
Programmable Electronic Features..... 113,116,155
Programming Transmitters
(Remote Keyless Entry).............. 22,113,116
Radial Ply Tires........................ 236
Radio Broadcast Signals.................. 160
Radio, Navigation...................... 192
Radio Operation...............162,169,180,198
Radio, Satellite......................192,193
Radio (Sound Systems).............162,169,180
Rear Axle (Differential)................... 302
Rear Drive Assembly.................... 302
Rear Fog Lights........................ 152
Rear Liftgate (Sedan)..................... 26Rear Seat, Folding....................... 99
Rear Window Defroster.................. 134
Rear Window Features................... 132
Rear Wiper/Washer..................... 132
Recorder, Event Data..................... 52
Recreational Towing..................... 264
Refrigerant ............................ 291
Reminder, Seat Belt...................... 37
Remote Control
Door Locks.......................... 19
Security Alarm........................ 24
Remote Keyless Entry (Sedan).............. 19
Remote Sound System (Radio) Controls...... 196
Replacement Bulbs...................... 310
Replacement Keys....................... 12
Replacement Parts...................... 282
Replacement Tires...................... 239
Reporting Safety Defects................. 341
Restraints,Child ...................... 54,59
Restraints,Infant ........................ 54
Retractable Cargo Area Cover.............. 130
Roof Rack (Luggage Rack)................ 134
Rotation,Tires ......................... 247
INDEX 355
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