torque DODGE CHARGER 2021 User Guide

SAFETY181
ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL (EBC)
S
YSTEM

Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced Electronic
Brake Control (EBC) system. This system includes
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Anti-Lock
Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill
Start Assist (HSA), Traction Control System (TCS),
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Electronic Roll
Mitigation (ERM). These systems work together to
enhance both vehicle stability and control in various
driving conditions.

Your vehicle may also be equipped with Ready
Alert Braking (RAB) and Rain Brake Support (RBS).
Brake System Warning Light
The red Brake System Warning Light will turn on
when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN mode
and may stay on for as long as four seconds.
If the Brake System Warning Light remains on
or comes on while driving, it indicates that the
brake system is not functioning properly and that
immediate service is required. If the Brake System
Warning Light does not come on when the ignition
is placed in the ON/RUN mode, have the light
repaired as soon as possible.
Brake Assist System (BAS)
The BAS is designed to optimize the vehicle’s
braking capability during emergency braking
maneuvers. The system detects an emergency
braking situation by sensing the rate and amount
of brake application and then applies optimum
pressure to the brakes. This can help reduce
braking distances. The BAS complements the
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS). Applying the brakes
very quickly results in the best BAS assistance.
To receive the benefit of the system, you must
apply continuous braking pressure during the
stopping sequence (do not “pump” the brakes).
Do not reduce brake pedal pressure unless
braking is no longer desired. Once the brake
pedal is released, the BAS is deactivated.
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
EBD manages the distribution of the braking
torque between the front and rear axles by limiting
braking pressure to the rear axle. This is done to
prevent overslip of the rear wheels to avoid vehicle
instability, and to prevent the rear axle from
entering ABS before the front axle.
Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM)
ERM anticipates the potential for wheel lift by
monitoring the driver’s steering wheel input and
the speed of the vehicle. When ERM determines
that the rate of change of the steering wheel angle
and vehicle’s speed are sufficient to potentially
cause wheel lift, it then applies the appropriate
brake and may also reduce engine power to lessen
the chance that wheel lift will occur. ERM can only
reduce the chance of wheel lift occurring during
severe or evasive driving maneuvers; it cannot
prevent wheel lift due to other factors, such as
road conditions, leaving the roadway, striking
objects or other vehicles.
NOTE:ERM is disabled any time the ESC is in “Full Off”
mode (if equipped). See Ú page 182 for a
complete explanation of the available ESC modes.
WARNING!

The Brake Assist System (BAS) cannot prevent the
natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle,
nor can it increase the traction afforded by prevailing
road conditions. BAS cannot prevent collisions,
including those resulting from excessive speed in
turns, driving on very slippery surfaces, or
hydroplaning. The capabilities of a BAS-equipped
vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or
dangerous manner, which could jeopardize the
user's safety or the safety of others.

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SAFETY183
"Partial Off"
This mode may be useful if the vehicle becomes
stuck. This mode may modify TCS and ESC
thresholds for activation, which allows for more
wheel spin than normally allowed.
To enter the “Partial Off” mode, momentarily push
the ESC OFF button and the ESC OFF Indicator
Light will illuminate. To turn the ESC on again,
momentarily push the ESC OFF button and the ESC
OFF Indicator Light will turn off.
NOTE:
For vehicles with multiple partial ESC modes,
the push and release of the button will toggle
the ESC modes. Multiple attempts may be
required to return to "ESC On" mode.
Trailer Sway Control (TSC) is disabled when the
ESC system is in the “Partial Off” mode.
If Equipped — "ESC Sport" and "ESC Track" are
ESC “Partial Off” mode(s). “Full Off” – If Equipped

This mode is intended for off-highway or off-road use
only and should not be used on any public roadways.
In this mode, TCS and ESC features are turned off.
To enter the “Full Off” mode, push and hold the ESC
OFF button for five seconds while the vehicle is stopped
with the engine running. After five seconds, a chime will
sound, the ESC OFF Indicator Light will illuminate, and
the ESC OFF message will display in the instrument
cluster. To turn ESC on again, momentarily push the
ESC OFF button.

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 is placed in the
ON/RUN mode. 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 an authorized dealer
as soon as possible to have the problem
diagnosed and corrected.
The ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light
(located in the instrument cluster) starts to flash as
soon as the tires lose traction and the ESC system
becomes active. The ESC Activation/Malfunction
Indicator Light also flashes when TCS is active.
If the ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator 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 ESC OFF Indicator Light indicates
the customer has elected to have the
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) in a
reduced mode.
WARNING!

When in “Partial Off” mode, the TCS functionality of
ESC, except for the limited slip feature described in
the TCS section, has been disabled and the ESC OFF
Indicator Light will be illuminated. When in “Partial
Off” mode, the engine power reduction feature of
Traction Control System (TCS) is disabled, and the
enhanced vehicle stability offered by the ESC system
is reduced.
WARNING!
In the ESC “Full Off” mode, the engine torque
reduction and stability features are disabled.
Therefore, enhanced vehicle stability offered
by the ESC system is unavailable. In an emer -
gency evasive maneuver, the ESC system will
not engage to assist in maintaining stability.
ESC “Full Off” mode is intended for
off-highway or off-road use only.
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot
prevent the natural laws of physics from
acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase the
traction afforded by prevailing road condi -
tions. ESC cannot prevent all accidents,
including those resulting from excessive
speed in turns, driving on very slippery
surfaces, or hydroplaning. ESC also cannot
prevent collisions.
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SAFETY221
(Continued)
(Continued)
Floor Mat Safety Information

Always use floor mats designed to fit your vehicle.
Only use a floor mat that does not interfere with the
operation of the accelerator, brake or clutch pedals.
Only use a floor mat that is securely attached using the
floor mat fasteners so it cannot slip out of position and
interfere with the accelerator, brake or clutch pedals or
impair safe operation of your vehicle in other ways.

PERIODIC SAFETY CHECKS YOU SHOULD
M
AKE OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE
Tires
Examine tires for excessive tread wear and uneven
wear patterns. Check for stones, nails, glass, or
other objects lodged in the tread or sidewall.
Inspect the tread for cuts and cracks. Inspect
sidewalls for cuts, cracks, and bulges. Check the
lug nuts/bolt torque for tightness. Check the tires
(including spare) for proper cold inflation pressure.
WARNING!
An improperly attached, damaged, folded, or
stacked floor mat, or damaged floor mat
fasteners may cause your floor mat to interfere
with the accelerator, brake, or clutch pedals and
cause a loss of vehicle control. To prevent
SERIOUS INJURY or DEATH:
ALWAYS securely attach your floor mat
using the floor mat fasteners. DO NOT install
your floor mat upside down or turn your floor
mat over. Lightly pull to confirm mat is
secured using the floor mat fasteners on a
regular basis.

ALWAYS REMOVE THE EXISTING FLOOR MAT
FROM THE VEHICLE before installing any
other floor mat. NEVER install or stack an addi -
tional floor mat on top of an existing floor mat.
ONLY install floor mats designed to fit your
vehicle. NEVER install a floor mat that cannot
be properly attached and secured to your
vehicle. If a floor mat needs to be replaced, only
use a FCA approved floor mat for the specific
make, model, and year of your vehicle.
ONLY use the driver’s side floor mat on the
driver’s side floor area. To check for interfer -
ence, with the vehicle properly parked with the
engine off, fully depress the accelerator, the
brake, and the clutch pedal (if present) to check
for interference. If your floor mat interferes with
the operation of any pedal, or is not secure to
the floor, remove the floor mat from the vehicle
and place the floor mat in your trunk.

ONLY use the passenger’s side floor mat on
the passenger’s side floor area.

ALWAYS make sure objects cannot fall or slide
into the driver’s side floor area when the vehicle
is moving. Objects can become trapped under
accelerator, brake, or clutch pedals and could
cause a loss of vehicle control.

NEVER place any objects under the floor mat
(e.g., towels, keys, etc.). These objects could
change the position of the floor mat and may
cause interference with the accelerator,
brake, or clutch pedals.
WARNING!
If the vehicle carpet has been removed and
re-installed, always properly attach carpet to
the floor and check the floor mat fasteners are
secure to the vehicle carpet. Fully depress
each pedal to check for interference with the
accelerator, brake, or clutch pedals then
re-install the floor mats.
It is recommended to only use mild soap and
water to clean your floor mats. After cleaning,
always check your floor mat has been properly
installed and is secured to your vehicle using
the floor mat fasteners by lightly pulling mat.
WARNING!
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230IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

Rear Jacking Location

5. Raise the vehicle just enough to remove the flat tire and install the spare tire.
6. Remove the lug nuts and tire.
7. Mount the spare tire.
Mounting Spare Tire

NOTE:
For vehicles so equipped, do not attempt to
install a center cap or wheel cover on the
compact spare Ú
page 287.
8. Install the lug nuts with the cone shaped end of the lug nut toward the wheel. Lightly tighten
the lug nuts. 9. Lower the vehicle to the ground by turning the
jack handle counterclockwise.
10. Finish tightening the wheel bolts. Push down on the wrench while at the end of the handle
for increased leverage. Tighten the wheel bolts
in a star pattern until each wheel bolt has been
tightened twice. If in doubt about the correct
tightness, have them checked with a torque
wrench by an authorized dealer or at a service
station Ú page 296.
11. Stow the wheel chocks, jack, tools and flat tire. Make sure the base of the jack faces the front
of the vehicle before tightening down the
fastener.
WARNING!
Raising the vehicle higher than necessary can
make the vehicle less stable. It could slip off the
jack and hurt someone near it. Raise the vehicle
only enough to remove the tire.
CAUTION!
Be sure to mount the spare tire with the valve
stem facing outward. The vehicle could be
damaged if the spare tire is mounted incorrectly.
WARNING!
To avoid the risk of forcing the vehicle off the
jack, do not tighten the wheel nuts fully until the
vehicle has been lowered. Failure to follow this
warning may result in serious injury.
WARNING!
A loose tire or jack thrown forward in a collision
or hard stop could endanger the occupants of
the vehicle. Always stow the jack parts and the
spare tire in the places provided. Have the
deflated (flat) tire repaired or replaced
immediately.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE263
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
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.

Fluid And Filter Changes — Eight-Speed
Transmission
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 Úpage 300. 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.

REAR AXLE
For normal service, periodic fluid level checks are
not required. When the vehicle is serviced for other
reasons the exterior surfaces of the axle assembly
should be inspected. If gear oil leakage is
suspected inspect the fluid level Ú page 300.

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.
Do not allow petroleum based fluid to contaminate
the brake fluid. Brake seal components could be
damaged, causing partial or complete brake
failure. This could result in a collision.

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.
WARNING!
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.

CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may cause
deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or
torque converter shudder Úpage 300.
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296
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (VIN)
The VIN is on the left front corner of the instrument
panel. The VIN is visible from outside of the vehicle
through the windshield.
Windshield VIN Location

NOTE:It is illegal to remove or alter the VIN.
BRAKE SYSTEM

Your vehicle is equipped with dual hydraulic brake
systems. If either of the two hydraulic systems loses
normal capability, the remaining system will still
function. There will be some loss of overall braking
effectiveness. This may be evident by increased
pedal travel during application, greater pedal force
required to slow or stop, and potential activation of
the Brake Warning Light.

In the event power assist is lost for any reason (for
example, repeated brake applications with the engine
off), the brakes will still function. The effort required to
brake the vehicle will be much greater than that
required with the power system operating.

WHEEL AND TIRE TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
Proper lug nut/bolt torque is very important to
ensure that the wheel is properly mounted to the
vehicle. Any time a wheel has been removed and
reinstalled on the vehicle, the lug nuts/bolts
should be torqued using a properly calibrated
torque wrench using a six sided (hex) deep wall
socket.
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
**Use only authorized dealer recommended lug
nuts/bolts and clean or remove any dirt or oil
before tightening.
Inspect the wheel mounting surface prior to
mounting the tire and remove any corrosion or
loose particles.
Wheel Mounting Surface

Lug Nut/Bolt
Torque **Lug Nut/
Bolt SizeLug Nut/Bolt
Socket Size
130 Ft-Lb
(176 N·m) M14 x 1.50 22 mm

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS297
Tighten the lug nuts/bolts in a star pattern until
each nut/bolt has been tightened twice. Ensure
that the socket is fully engaged on the lug nut/bolt
(do not insert it halfway).
NOTE:If in doubt about the correct tightness, have them
checked with a torque wrench by an authorized
dealer or service station.
After 25 miles (40 km), check the lug nut/bolt
torque to be sure that all the lug nuts/bolts are
properly tightened.

Torque Patterns

FUEL REQUIREMENTS
While operating on gasoline with the required
octane number, hearing a light knocking sound
from the engine is not a cause for concern.
However, if the engine is heard making a heavy
knocking sound, see a dealer immediately. Use of
gasoline with a lower than recommended octane
number can cause engine failure and may void the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Poor quality gasoline can cause problems such
as hard starting, stalling, and hesitations. If you
experience these symptoms, try another brand of
gasoline before considering service for the vehicle.
3.6L ENGINE
This engine is designed to meet all
emissions regulations and provide
excellent fuel economy and performance
when using high-quality unleaded regular
gasoline having an octane rating of 87 as specified
by the (R+M)/2 method. The use of higher octane
premium gasoline will not provide any benefit over
regular gasoline in these engines.
5.7L ENGINE
Do not use E-85 flex fuel or ethanol blends greater
than 15% in this engine.

This engine is designed to meet all
emissions regulations and provide
satisfactory fuel economy and
performance when using high-quality
unleaded gasoline having an octane range of 87
to 89 as specified by the (R+M)/2 method. The use
of 89 octane plus gasoline is recommended for
optimum performance and fuel economy.

REFORMULATED GASOLINE

Many areas of the country require the use of cleaner
burning gasoline referred to as “reformulated
gasoline”. Reformulated gasoline contains
oxygenates and are specifically blended to reduce
vehicle emissions and improve air quality.

The use of reformulated gasoline is recommended.
Properly blended reformulated gasoline will
provide improved performance and durability
of engine and fuel system components.
WARNING!
To avoid the risk of forcing the vehicle off the
jack, do not tighten the lug nuts/bolts fully until
the vehicle has been lowered. Failure to follow
this warning may result in personal injury.
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314 Starting Procedures
......................................... 83Steering........................................................... 25Column Lock............................................... 25Power.......................................................... 94Tilt Column.................................................. 25Wheel, Heated............................................. 25Wheel, Tilt................................................... 25Steering Wheel Audio Controls...................... 141Steering Wheel Mounted Sound System.......141Storage................................................... 55, 292Storage, Vehicle...................................... 54, 292Store Radio Presets....................................... 148Storing Your Vehicle...................................... 292Stuck, Freeing............................................... 242Sun Roof................................................... 60, 61Sunglasses Storage......................................... 56Supplemental Restraint System – Air Bag..... 201Symbol Glossary................................................ 9Synthetic Engine Oil....................................... 253System, Remote Starting................................. 17
T
Telescoping Steering Column.......................... 25Temperature Control, Automatic (ATC)............ 53Tilt Steering Column........................................ 25Time Delay Headlight..................................................... 44Tire And Loading Information Placard........... 280Tire Markings................................................. 275Tire Safety Information.................................. 275
Tire Service Kit............................ 231, 232, 233Tires...................................221, 283, 287, 291Aging (Life Of Tires).................................. 285Air Pressure.............................................. 283Chains...................................................... 290Changing.................................................. 226Compact Spare......................................... 287General Information........................ 283, 287High Speed............................................... 284Inflation Pressure..................................... 283Jacking..................................................... 226Life Of Tires.............................................. 285Load Capacity........................................... 280Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)..78, 190Quality Grading......................................... 291Radial....................................................... 284Replacement............................................ 286Rotation.................................................... 291Safety.............................................. 275, 283Sizes......................................................... 276Snow Tires................................................ 287Spare Tires............................. 227, 287, 288Spinning................................................... 285Trailer Towing........................................... 119Tread Wear Indicators.............................. 285Wheel Nut Torque..................................... 296To Open Hood.................................................. 62Tongue Weight/Trailer Weight...................... 118
Towing........................................................... 115Behind A Motorhome................................ 121Disabled Vehicle....................................... 243Guide........................................................ 117Recreational............................................. 121Weight...................................................... 117Towing Behind A Motorhome........................ 121Traction......................................................... 122Traction Control............................................ 185Trailer Towing................................................ 115Hitches..................................................... 117Minimum Requirements........................... 118Tips........................................................... 121Trailer And Tongue Weight........................ 118Wiring....................................................... 120Trailer Towing Guide..................................... 117Trailer Weight................................................ 117Transfer CaseFluid.......................................................... 301Transmission....................................................89Automatic.......................................... 89, 263Fluid.......................................................... 301Maintenance............................................ 263Shifting........................................................88Transporting Pets.......................................... 220Tread Wear Indicators................................... 285Trunk Lid (Deck Lid).........................................63Trunk Release Remote Control........................63Turn Signals..............................................44, 80

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