service DODGE CHALLENGER 2021 Manual PDF

262SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic
converter will not require maintenance. However, it
is important to keep the engine properly tuned to
ensure proper catalyst operation and prevent
possible catalyst damage.
NOTE:Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems can result in civil penalties being
assessed against you.
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 manufacturer's specifications, should
be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter
damage:
Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the igni-
tion when the transmission 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 or removed, such as when diag -
nostic testing, or for prolonged periods during
very rough idle or malfunctioning operating
conditions.
NOTE:The vehicle exhaust system may be equipped with
an Electronic Exhaust Valve (EEV) system, if the
exhaust system is replaced with aftermarket
products a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) will
illuminate.
COOLING SYSTEM
Coolant Checks
Check engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every
12 months (before the onset of freezing weather,
where applicable). If the engine coolant is dirty, the
system should be drained, flushed, and refilled
with fresh Organic Additive Technology (OAT)
coolant (conforming to MS.90032) by an
authorized dealer. Check the front of the radiator
for any accumulation of bugs, leaves, etc. If dirty,
clean by gently spraying water from a garden hose
vertically down the face of the condenser.
Check the coolant recovery bottle tubing for brittle
rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, and tightness of the
connection at the bottle and radiator. Inspect the
entire system for leaks. DO NOT REMOVE THE
COOLANT PRESSURE CAP WHEN THE COOLING
SYSTEM IS HOT.
Cooling System — Drain, Flush And Refill
NOTE:Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant
properly. Failure to fill these systems properly
could lead to severe internal engine damage. If any
coolant is needed to be added to the system
please contact an authorized dealer.
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 open a
cooling system pressure cap when the radi -
ator or coolant bottle is hot.
Keep hands, tools, clothing, and jewelry away
from the radiator cooling fan when the hood is
raised. The fan starts automatically and may
start at any time, whether the engine is
running or not.
When working near the radiator cooling fan,
disconnect the fan motor lead or turn the igni -
tion to the OFF mode. The fan is temperature
controlled and can start at any time the igni -
tion is in the ON mode.

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264SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Cooling System Pressure Cap
The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss of
engine coolant (antifreeze), and to ensure that
engine coolant will return to the radiator from the
coolant expansion bottle/recovery tank (if
equipped).
The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there
is any accumulation of foreign material on the
sealing surfaces.
Disposal Of Used Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based coolant (antifreeze) is
a regulated substance requiring proper disposal.
Check with your local authorities to determine the
disposal rules for your community. To prevent
ingestion by animals or children, do not store
ethylene glycol-based coolant in open containers
or allow it to remain in puddles on the ground:
clean up any ground spills immediately. If ingested,
seek emergency assistance immediately.
Coolant Level
The coolant bottle provides a quick visual method
for determining that the engine coolant
(antifreeze) level is adequate. With the engine off
and cold, the level of the engine coolant in the
bottle should be between the ranges indicated on
the bottle.
The radiator normally remains completely full, so
there is no need to remove the radiator cap unless
checking for engine coolant freeze point or
replacing engine coolant. Advise your service
attendant of this. As long as the engine operating
temperature is satisfactory, the coolant bottle
need only be checked once a month.
When additional engine coolant is needed to
maintain the proper level, it should be added to the
coolant bottle. Do not overfill.
Cooling System Notes
NOTE:When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/kilo -
meters of operation, you may observe vapor
coming from the front of the engine compartment.
This is normally a result of moisture from rain,
snow, or high humidity accumulating on the
radiator and being vaporized when the thermostat
opens, allowing hot engine coolant (antifreeze) to
enter the radiator.
If an examination of your engine compartment
shows no evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the
vehicle may be safely driven. The vapor will soon
dissipate.
Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator
and in the coolant expansion bottle. If engine
coolant needs to be added, the contents of the
coolant expansion bottle must also be protected
against freezing.
If frequent engine coolant additions are
required, the cooling system should be pressure
tested for leaks.
Maintain engine coolant concentration at a
minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to
MS.90032) and distilled water for proper corro -
sion protection of your engine which contains
aluminum components.
WARNING!
Do not open hot engine cooling system. Never
add engine coolant (antifreeze) when the
engine is overheated. Do not loosen or
remove the cap to cool an overheated engine.
Heat causes pressure to build up in the
cooling system. To prevent scalding or injury,
do not remove the pressure cap while the
system is hot or under pressure.
Do not use a pressure cap other than the one
specified for your vehicle. Personal injury or
engine damage may result.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE265
(Continued)
Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle
overflow hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your
vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, keep
the front of the condenser clean.
Do not change the thermostat for Summer or
Winter operation. If replacement is ever neces -
sary, install ONLY the correct type thermostat.
Other designs may result in unsatisfactory
engine cooling performance, poor gas mileage,
and increased emissions.
BRAKE SYSTEM
In order to ensure brake system performance, all
brake system components should be inspected
periodically Ú page 247.
Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder
Check the fluid level in the master cylinder
immediately if the Brake System Warning Light
indicates system failure.
Check the fluid level in the master cylinder when
performing underhood services.
Clean the top of the master cylinder area before
removing the cap. Add fluid to bring the level up to
the top of the “FULL” mark on the side of the
master cylinder reservoir.
Overfilling of fluid is not recommended because it
may cause leaking in the system.
Add enough fluid to bring the level up to the
requirements described on the brake fluid
reservoir. With disc brakes, fluid level can be
expected to fall as the brake pads wear. However,
low fluid level may be caused by a leak and a
checkup may be needed.
Use only brake fluid that has been recommended
by the manufacturer, and has been kept in a tightly
closed container to avoid contamination from
foreign matter or moisture Ú page 306.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and
possibly a collision. Driving with your foot resting
or riding on the brake pedal can result in
abnormally high brake temperatures, excessive
lining wear, and possible brake damage. You
would not have your full braking capacity in an
emergency.
WARNING!
Use only manufacturer's recommended brake
fluid Úpage 306. Using the wrong type of
brake fluid can severely damage your brake
system and/or impair its performance. The
proper type of brake fluid for your vehicle is
also identified on the original factory installed
hydraulic master cylinder reservoir.
To avoid contamination from foreign matter or
moisture, use only new brake fluid or fluid that
has been in a tightly closed container. Keep
the master cylinder reservoir cap secured at
all times. Brake fluid in a open container
absorbs moisture from the air resulting in a
lower boiling point. This may cause it to boil
unexpectedly during hard or prolonged
braking, resulting in sudden brake failure. This
could result in a collision.
Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result
in spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts,
causing the brake fluid to catch fire. Brake
fluid can also damage painted and vinyl
surfaces, care should be taken to avoid its
contact with these surfaces.8

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266SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
CLUTCH HYDRAULIC SYSTEM — MANUAL
T
RANSMISSION (IF EQUIPPED)
The clutch hydraulic system is fed by a segregated
volume of fluid within the brake system master
cylinder reservoir. In the event of leakage or wear,
use only the manufacturer's recommended brake
fluid Ú page 306.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION — IF EQUIPPED
Fluid Level Check
Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug on the
left side of the transmission. The fluid level should
be 1/4 inch (6.4mm) below the bottom of the fill
hole. Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper
level Ú page 306.
Change Transmission Fluid
If contaminated with water, change the fluid
immediately. See an authorized dealer for service.
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 247.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION —
I
F EQUIPPED
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against
using any special additives in the transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an
engineered product and its performance may be
impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore, do
not add any fluid additives to the transmission.
Avoid using transmission sealers as they may
adversely affect seals.
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not
require adjustment under normal operating
conditions. Routine fluid level checks are not
required; therefore the transmission has no
dipstick. An authorized dealer can check your
transmission fluid level using special service tools.
If you notice fluid leakage or transmission
malfunction, visit an authorized dealer
immediately to have the transmission fluid level
checked. Operating the vehicle with an improper
fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.
Do not allow petroleum based fluid to contam -
inate the brake fluid. Brake seal components
could be damaged, causing partial or
complete brake failure. This could result in a
collision.
WARNING!CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer's recommended fluid may cause
deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or
damage to the transmission Ú page 306.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your
transmission as the chemicals can damage your
transmission components. Such damage is not
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an
authorized dealer immediately. Severe
transmission damage may occur. An authorized
dealer has the proper tools to adjust the fluid
level accurately.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE267
(Continued)
Fluid And Filter Changes
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid
installed at the factory will provide satisfactory
lubrication for the life of the vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not required.
However, change the fluid and filter if the fluid
becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the
transmission is disassembled for any reason.
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important to use the proper transmission fluid
to ensure optimum transmission performance and
life. Use only the manufacturer's specified
transmission fluid Ú page 306. It is important to
maintain the transmission fluid at the correct level
using the recommended fluid.
NOTE:No chemical flushes should be used in any trans -
mission; only the approved lubricant should be
used.
ALL WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) —
I
F EQUIPPED
The All Wheel Drive system consists of a transfer
case and front differential. The exterior surface of
these components should be inspected for
evidence of fluid leaks. Confirmed leaks should be
repaired as soon as possible.
The transfer case fluid fill/inspection plug is
located in the middle of the rear housing. To
inspect the transfer case fluid level, remove the
fill/inspection plug. The fluid level should be even
with the bottom of the hole. Use this plug to add
fluid as required.
The front differential fill plug is located on the outer
cover near the half shaft attachment. To inspect
the differential fluid level, remove the fill plug. The
fluid level should be even with or slightly below the
bottom of the hole.
Fluid Changes
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 246.
REAR AXLE
Fluid Level Check
Checking the fluid level while the vehicle is on level
ground and has been stationary for 15 minutes will
improve the accuracy of the fluid level reading. Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug on the
axle. The fluid level should be 1-2.5 mm below the
fill plug. Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the
proper level Ú
page 306.
Change Axle Fluid
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 246.
FUSES
General Information
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may cause
deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or
torque converter shudder Ú page 306.
WARNING!
When replacing a blown fuse, always use an
appropriate replacement fuse with the same
amp rating as the original fuse. Never replace
a fuse with another fuse of higher amp rating.
Never replace a blown fuse with metal wires or
any other material. Do not place a fuse inside
a circuit breaker cavity or vice versa. Failure to
use proper fuses may result in serious
personal injury, fire and/or property damage.
Before replacing a fuse, make sure that the
ignition is off and that all the other services
are switched off and/or disengaged.
If the replaced fuse blows again, contact an
authorized dealer.
8

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276SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
BULB REPLACEMENT
Replacement Bulbs
NOTE:See an authorized dealer for LED bulb replacement.
All of the interior bulbs are glass wedge base or glass cartridge types. Aluminum base bulbs are not approved and should not be used for replacement.
Interior Bulbs
Bulb Name Bulb Number
Rear Courtesy/Reading Lamps W5W
Rear Compartment (Trunk) Lamp 562
Overhead Console Reading Lamps 578
Visor Vanity Lamps A6220
Glove Compartment Lamp – If Equipped 194
Door Courtesy 562
Shift Indicator Lamp JKLE14140
Optional Door Map Pocket/Cupholder LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
For lighted switches, see an authorized dealer for replacement instructions.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE277
* The headlamps are a type of high-voltage discharge tube. High voltage can remain in the circuit even with the headlamp switch off and the key removed.
Because of this, you should not attempt to service a headlamp bulb yourself. If a headlamp bulb fails, take your vehicle to an authorized dealer for service.
Exterior Bulbs
Bulb Name Bulb Number
Headlamp – High Intensity Discharge (HID) D3S (Serviced at an authorized dealer) *
Halogen Headlamp HIR2LL
Front Park/Turn Lamp LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Front Fog Lamp H11LL
Front Side Marker LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Tail Lamp LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Stop/Turn Lamp LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Rear Side Marker LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Backup Lamp LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Center High Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL) LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
License LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
8

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278SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Replacing Exterior Bulbs

LOW BEAM HEADLAMP, HIGH BEAM
HEADLAMP — MODELS WITH HALOGEN
HEADLAMPS — IF EQUIPPED

See below steps to replace:

1. Open the hood.

Headlamp Assembly Dust Cap Location

NOTE:Removal of the air cleaner filter housing may be
necessary prior to replacing bulbs in the headlamp
assembly on the driver side of the vehicle. 2. Remove the large dust cap from the headlamp
housing by turning it counterclockwise.
3. Turn the bulb counterclockwise, and remove.

Headlamp Location

4. Disconnect the bulb from the socket assembly and install the replacement bulb.
5. Reinstall the bulb and socket assembly into the headlamp assembly, and then turn it
clockwise. 6. Reinstall the access cap making sure it is
seated into the housing and turn cap
clockwise to engage locking lugs. Visually, you
should be unable to see the blue O-ring gasket.
The access cap should be uniformly seated
and you should not be able to pull the access
cap off without turning it counterclockwise.
LOW BEAM HEADLAMP, HIGH BEAM HEAD -
LAMP — MODELS WITH HIGH INTENSITY
DISCHARGE (HID) HEADLAMPS — IF EQUIPPED
The headlamps are a type of high voltage
discharge tube. High voltage can remain in the
circuit even with the headlamp switch off and the
key removed. Because of this, you should not
attempt to service a headlamp bulb yourself. If a
headlamp bulb fails, take your vehicle to an
authorized dealer for service.CAUTION!
Do not touch the new bulb with your fingers. Oil
contamination will severely shorten bulb life. If
the bulb comes in contact with any oily surface,
clean the bulb with rubbing alcohol.
CAUTION!
If the access cap is not installed correctly after
bulb replacement, the lamp becomes
susceptible to dust, condensation, and water
intrusion. This may ultimately lead to an
inoperative lamp. If the access cap cannot be
installed correctly, please return to an
authorized dealer for proper repair or access
cap replacement if necessary.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE279
NOTE:On vehicles equipped with HID headlamps, when
the headlamps are turned on, there is a blue hue
to the lamps. This diminishes and becomes more
white after approximately 10 seconds, as the
system charges.
FRONT PARK/SIGNATURE LAMP
The Front Park/Signature function is part of the
headlamp assembly and use LED lamps that are
not serviceable separately. The headlamps must
be replaced as an assembly, see an authorized
dealer.
FRONT TURN/DRL LAMP
The Front Turn/DRL function is part of the
headlamp assembly and use LED lamps that are
not serviceable separately. The headlamps must
be replaced as an assembly, see an authorized
dealer.
FRONT/REAR SIDE MARKER LAMP
The Side Markers use LED lamps that are not
serviceable separately. The Side Markers must be
replaced as an assembly, see an authorized
dealer.
TAIL/TURN AND STOP LAMP
The Tail/Turn and Stop Lamps use LED lamps that
are not serviceable separately. The Tail/Turn and
Stop Lamps must be replaced as an assembly, see
an authorized dealer.
CENTER TAIL/BACKUP LAMP
The Center Tail/Backup Lamp use LED lamps that
are not serviceable separately. The Center Tail/
Backup Lamp must be replaced as an assembly;
see an authorized dealer.
CENTER HIGH MOUNTED STOP LAMP (CHMSL)
The CHMSL Lamp uses LED sources that are not
serviceable separately. The CHMSL Lamp must be
replaced as an assembly; see an authorized
dealer.
LICENSE LAMP
The License Lamp uses an LED source that is not
serviceable separately. The License Lamp must be
replaced as an assembly; see an authorized
dealer.
TIRES
TIRE SAFETY INFORMATION
Tire safety information will cover aspects of the
following information: Tire Markings, Tire
Identification Numbers, Tire Terminology and
Definitions, Tire Pressures, and Tire Loading.
WARNING!
A transient high voltage occurs at the bulb
sockets of HID headlamps when the headlamp
switch is turned ON. It may cause serious
electrical shock or electrocution if not serviced
properly. See an authorized dealer for service.
8

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280SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Tire Markings

Tire Markings

NOTE:
P (Passenger) — Metric tire sizing is based on US
design standards. P-Metric tires have the letter
“P” molded into the sidewall preceding the size
designation. Example: P215/65R15 95H.
European — Metric tire sizing is based on Euro -
pean design standards. Tires designed to this
standard have the tire size molded into the side -
wall beginning with the section width. The letter
"P" is absent from this tire size designation.
Example: 215/65R15 96H.
LT (Light Truck) — Metric tire sizing is based on
US design standards. The size designation for
LT-Metric tires is the same as for P-Metric tires
except for the letters “LT” that are molded into
the sidewall preceding the size designation.
Example: LT235/85R16.
Temporary spare tires are designed for tempo -
rary emergency use only. Temporary high pres -
sure compact spare tires have the letter “T” or
“S” molded into the sidewall preceding the size
designation. Example: T145/80D18 103M.
High flotation tire sizing is based on US design
standards and it begins with the tire diameter
molded into the sidewall. Example: 31x10.5
R15 LT.
1 — US DOT Safety Standards Code
(TIN)
2 — Size Designation
3 — Service Description
4 — Maximum Load
5 — Maximum Pressure
6 — Treadwear, Traction and
Temperature Grades

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