brake light DODGE CHARGER 2012 7.G Owner's Manual

mode is overcome, turn the ESC on again by momen-
tarily pressing the “ESC Off” switch. This may be done
while the vehicle is in motion.
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
The HSA system is designed to assist the driver when
starting a vehicle from a stop on a hill. HSA will maintain
the level of brake pressure the driver applied for a short
period of time after the driver takes their foot off of the
brake pedal. If the driver does not apply the throttle
during this short period of time, the system will release
brake pressure and the vehicle will roll down the hill. The
system will release brake pressure in proportion to the
amount of throttle applied as the vehicle starts to move in
the intended direction of travel.
HSA Activation Criteria
The following criteria must be met in order for HSA to
activate:
•Vehicle must be stopped.
•Vehicle must be on a 6% (approximate) grade or
greater hill.
•Gear selection matches vehicle uphill direction (i.e.,
vehicle facing uphill is in forward gear; vehicle back-
ing uphill is in REVERSE gear).
HSA will work in REVERSE and all forward gears when
the activation criteria have been met. The system will not
activate if the vehicle is placed in NEUTRAL or PARK.
WARNING!
There may be situations on minor hills (i.e., less than
8%), with a loaded vehicle, or while pulling a trailer,
when the system will not activate and slight rolling
may occur. This could cause a collision with another
vehicle or object. Always remember the driver is
responsible for braking the vehicle.
400 STARTING AND OPERATING

Ready Alert Braking
Ready Alert Braking may reduce the time required to
reach full braking during emergency braking situations.
It anticipates when an emergency braking situation may
occur by monitoring how fast the throttle is released by
the driver. When the throttle is released very quickly,
Ready Alert Braking applies a small amount of brake
pressure. This brake pressure will not be noticed by the
driver. The brake system uses this brake pressure to allow
a fast brake response if the driver applies the brakes.
Rain Brake Support
Rain Brake Support may improve braking performance
in wet conditions. It will periodically apply a small
amount of brake pressure to remove any water buildup
on the front brake rotors. It only functions when the
windshield wipers are in the LO or HI mode, it does not
function in the intermittent mode. When Rain Brake
Support is active, there is no notification to the driver and
no driver interaction is required.
ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light and
ESC OFF Indicator Light
The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator
Light” in the instrument cluster will come on
when the ignition switch is turned to the ON
position. It should go out with the engine
running. If the “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator
Light” comes on continuously with the 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), see your autho-
rized dealer as soon as possible to have the problem
diagnosed and corrected.
402 STARTING AND OPERATING

WARNING!
•An improperly adjusted weight distributing hitch
system may reduce handling, stability, braking
performance, and could result in a collision.
•Weight distributing systems may not be compat-
ible with surge brake couplers. Consult with your
hitch and trailer manufacturer or a reputable rec-
reational vehicle dealer for additional
information.
Trailer Hitch Classification
Your vehicle may be factory equipped for safe towing of
trailers weighing over 2,000 lbs (907 kg) with the optional
Trailer Tow Prep Package. See your authorized dealer for
package content.
The following chart provides the industry standard for
the maximum trailer weight a given trailer hitch class can
tow and should be used to assist you in selecting thecorrect trailer hitch for your intended towing condition.
Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer
Weight Ratings)” chart for the Maximum GTW towable
for your given drivetrain.
Trailer Hitch Classification Definitions
Class Max. Trailer Hitch Indus-
try Standards
Class I - Light Duty 2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Class II - Medium Duty 3,500 lbs (1 587 kg)
Class III - Heavy Duty 5,000 lbs (2 268 kg)
Class IV - Extra Heavy
Duty 10,000 lbs (4 540 kg)
Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum
Trailer Weight Ratings)” chart for the Maximum
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) towable for your given
drivetrain.
All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on
your vehicle.
452 STARTING AND OPERATING

CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (454 kg)
loaded, it should have its own brakes, and they
should be of adequate capacity. Failure to do this
could lead to accelerated brake lining wear, higher
brake pedal effort, and longer stopping distances.
WARNING!
•Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle’s
hydraulic brake lines. It can overload your brake
system and cause it to fail. You might not have
brakes when you need them and could have an
collision.(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
•Towing any trailer will increase your stopping
distance. When towing, you should allow for ad-
ditional space between your vehicle and the ve-
hicle in front of you. Failure to do so could result
in a collision.
Towing Requirements – Trailer Lights And Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer size,
stoplights and turn signals on the trailer are required for
motoring safety.
The Trailer Tow Package may include a four and seven-
pin wiring harness. Use a factory approved trailer har-
ness and connector.
NOTE:Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicles
wiring harness.
458 STARTING AND OPERATING

•Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter
operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install
ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may
result in unsatisfactory coolant performance, poor gas
mileage, and increased emissions.
Brake System
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically.
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
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.
Master Cylinder – Brake Fluid Level Check
Check the fluid level in the master cylinder immediately
if the brake system warning light indicates system fail-
ure.
Check the fluid level in the master cylinder when per-
forming 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 require-
ments 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.
514 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Once A Month
•Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or
damage.
•Inspect the battery, and clean and tighten the terminals
as required.
•Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder, and power steering, and add as
needed.
•Check all lights and other electrical items for correct
operation.At Each Oil Change
•Change the engine oil filter.
•Inspect the brake hoses and lines.
CAUTION!
Failure to perform the required maintenance items
may result in damage to the vehicle.
Required Maintenance Intervals
Refer to the Maintenance Schedules on the following
pages for the required maintenance intervals.
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S544 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

About Your Brakes....................... 391
ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) .............. 394
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (Cruise Control) . . 222
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze) .......... 510
Adding Fuel ........................... 444
Adding Washer Fluid ..................... 505
Additives, Fuel ......................... 439
Adjustable Pedals ....................... 217
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) . . . 498
Air Conditioner Maintenance ............... 501
Air Conditioning Filter .................356,502
Air Conditioning Refrigerant .............501,502
Air Conditioning System ................354,501
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips ............ 357
Air Pressure, Tires ....................... 414
Airbag .............................. 54,65
Airbag Deployment ....................... 66
Airbag Light ..................... 63,69,83,294
Airbag Maintenance ....................... 68 Airbag, Side
........................ 57,62,65
Airbag, Window (Side Curtain) ...........58,62,65
Alarm (Security Alarm) .................... 17
Alarm Light ........................... 295
Alarm System (Security Alarm) ............... 17
Alarm, Panic ............................ 23
All Wheel Drive (AWD) ................385,518
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle ............. 7
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ............394,396
Anti-Lock Warning Light .................. 295
Anti-Theft Security Alarm (Theft Alarm) ........ 17
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ..............509,538
Disposal ........................... 512
Appearance Care ........................ 519
Arming Theft System (Security Alarm) ......... 17
Assist, Hill Start ........................ 400
Auto Down Power Windows ................ 37
Auto Unlock, Doors ....................... 30
Auto Up Power Windows .................. 37
570 INDEX

Automatic Dimming Mirror................. 94
Automatic Door Locks ..................... 30
Automatic Headlights .................... 200
Automatic Oil Change Indicator ............. 308
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) ......... 354
Automatic Transaxle Special Additives ..................... 516
Automatic Transmission ...........370,374,516,517
Adding Fluid .................... 517,540
Autostick .......................... 381
Fluid and Filter Changes ............... 517
Fluid Change ....................... 517
Fluid Level Check .................... 517
Fluid Type ......................... 540
Special Additives ..................... 516
Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode ..... 373
Autostick ............................. 381
Axle Fluid ............................. 540
Axle Lubrication (Axle Fluid) ............... 540B-Pillar Location
........................ 409
Battery ............................... 499
Keyless Transmitter Replacement (RKE) ..... 24
Location ........................... 499
Belts, Seat ............................ 43,83
Body Mechanism Lubrication ............... 504
Brake Assist System ...................... 397
Brake Control System, Electronic ............. 396
Brake Fluid ............................ 540
Brake System ........................... 514
Anti-Lock (ABS) ..................... 394
Fluid Check ..................... 514,540
Master Cylinder ..................... 514
Parking ........................... 391
Warning Light ....................... 296
Brake, Parking .......................... 391
Brake/Transmission Interlock ............... 370
Brakes ............................... 514
Break-In Recommendations, New Vehicle ........ 81
10
INDEX 571

FlashersHazard Warning ..................... 464
Turn Signal .................... 85,204,290
Flat Tire Changing ....................... 465
Flexible Fuel Vehicles Cruising Range ...................... 443
Engine Oil ......................... 442
Fuel Requirements ................. 440,441
Maintenance ........................ 443
Replacement Parts .................... 443
Starting ........................... 443
Flooded Engine Starting ................... 367
Floor Console .......................... 279
Fluid Capacities ......................... 538
Fluid Leaks ............................. 85
Fluid Level Checks Automatic Transmission ................ 517
Brake ............................. 514
Cooling System ...................... 509 Engine Oil
......................... 495
Transfer Case ....................... 518
Fluid, Brake ........................... 540
Fluids ................................ 539
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts .......... 539
Fog Lights .......................... 203,290
Folding Rear Seat ........................ 191
Forward Collision Warning ..............243,304
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle ................... 479
Fuel ................................. 436
Additives .......................... 439
Clean Air .......................... 437
Conserving ......................... 310
Ethanol ........................... 437
Filler Door (Gas Cap) .................. 294
Gasoline ........................... 436
Gauge ............................ 294
Light ............................. 304
Materials Added ..................... 439
576 INDEX

Jacking Instructions...................... 469
Jump Starting .......................... 475
Key-In Reminder ......................... 14
Key, Programming ........................ 17
Key, Replacement ........................ 16
Key, Sentry (Immobilizer) ................... 15
Keyless Enter-N-Go .................... 32,365
Keyless Entry System ...................... 20
Keyless Go ............................. 12
Keys ................................. 12
Kicker Sound System ..................... 342
Knee Bolster ............................ 54
Lane Change and Turn Signals .............. 204
Lane Change Assist ...................... 205
Lap/Shoulder Belts ....................... 43
LATCH
(Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren) .....74,75 Latch Plate
............................. 44
Latches ................................ 85
Hood ............................. 198
Lead Free Gasoline ...................... 436
Leaks, Fluid ............................ 85
Life of Tires ............................ 420
Light Bulbs .......................... 85,533
Lights .............................. 85,199
Airbag ...................... 63,69,83,294
Alarm ............................ 295
Anti-Lock .......................... 295
Automatic Headlights ................. 200
Brake Assist Warning .................. 402
Brake Warning ...................... 296
Bulb Replacement ................. 533,534
Daytime Running .................... 202
Dimmer Switch, Headlight ...........204,205
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Indicator . . 402
Exterior ............................ 85
10
INDEX 579