maintenance DODGE CHARGER 2021 Owner's Guide

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE261
Use only high purity water such as distilled or
deionized water when mixing the water/engine
coolant solution. The use of lower quality water
will reduce the amount of corrosion protection
in the engine cooling system.
NOTE:
It is the owner's responsibility to maintain the
proper level of protection against freezing
according to the temperatures occurring in the
area where the vehicle is operated.

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.

Mixing engine coolant types is not recom -
mended and can result in cooling system
damage. If HOAT and OAT coolant are mixed in
an emergency, have an authorized dealer drain,
flush, and refill with OAT coolant (conforming to
MS.90032) as soon as possible.
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 coolant level is adequate.
With the engine off and cold, the level of the engine
coolant (antifreeze) 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/coolant
pressure cap unless checking for engine coolant
freeze point or replacing 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, only OAT coolant that
meets the requirements of manufacturer Material
Standard MS.90032 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.
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.
8

21_LD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 261

262SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
(Continued)
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.
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 245.
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.
For further information Ú
page 300.
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 300. 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.

21_LD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 262

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.
8

21_LD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 263

264SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
FUSES
GENERAL INFORMATION
The fuses protect electrical systems against
excessive current.
When a device does not work, you must check the fuse
element inside the blade fuse for a break/melt.

Also, please be aware that when using power
outlets for extended periods of time with the
engine off may result in vehicle battery discharge.

Blade Fuses

UNDERHOOD FUSES
The Front Power Distribution Center is located in
the engine compartment. This module contains
fuses and relays. Fuse cavity location and
descriptions are printed on the inside of the power
distribution center cover.
Front Power Distribution Center

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.
If a general protection fuse for safety systems
(air bag system, braking system), power unit
systems (engine system, transmission
system) or steering system blows, contact an
authorized dealer.
1 — Fuse Element

2 — Blade Fuse with a good/functional fuse element

3 — Blade fuse with a bad/not functional fuse
element (blown fuse)
CAUTION!
When installing the power distribution center
cover, it is important to ensure the cover is
properly positioned and fully latched. Failure
to do so may allow water to get into the power
distribution center and possibly result in an
electrical system failure.
When replacing a blown fuse, it is important to
use only a fuse having the correct amperage
rating. The use of a fuse with a rating other
than indicated may result in a dangerous elec
-
trical system overload. If a properly rated fuse
continues to blow, it indicates a problem in the
circuit that must be corrected.

21_LD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 264

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE265
CavityCartridge Fuse Mini-Fuse Description
* If Equipped
F01 – –Spare
F02 40 Amp Green –Radiator Fan #1 (Non 6.2L Supercharged)
F03 50 Amp Red –Electric Power Steering #1 *
F04 30 Amp Pink –Starter
F05 40 Amp Green –Anti Lock Brakes
F06 30 Amp Pink –Anti Lock Brakes
F07 20 Amp Blue –Police Ignition Run / ACC #1
F09 –20 Amp Yellow All-Wheel Drive Module *
F10 –10 Amp Red Intrusion MOD (300) * / Under Hood Lamp (Police)
F11 –20 Amp Yellow Horns
F12 –10 Amp Red Air Conditioning Clutch
F13 – –Spare
F14 – –Spare
F15 –20 Amp Yellow LH HID Headlamp *
F16 –20 Amp Yellow RH HID Headlamp *
F18 50 Amp Red –Radiator Fan #2 (Non 6.2L Eng)
F19 50 Amp Red –Electric Power Steering #2 *
F20 30 Amp Pink –Wiper Motor
F21 30 Amp Pink
20 Amp Blue – Police –Headlamp Washers *
Police Bat Feed #2
8

21_LD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 265

266SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
F23 20 Amp Blue –Police Bat Feed # 1
F28 – –Spare
F29 –15 Amp Blue Auto Trans (Challenger / Charger Police)
F30 – –Spare
F31 –25 Amp Clear Engine Module
F32 – –Spare
F33 – –Spare
F34 –25 Amp Clear ASD Feed #1
F35 –20 Amp Yellow ASD Feed #2
F36 –10 Amp Red Anti-Lock Brake Module / Steering Column Lock Module (300*)
F37 –10 Amp Red Engine Controller
F38 –10 Amp Red Airbag Module
F39 –10 Amp Red AC Clutch / EPS */ Vacuum Pump *
F48 – AWD Module / Front Axle Disconnect *
F49 – –Spare
F50 – –Spare
F51 –20 Amp Yellow Vacuum Pump *
F52 – 5 Amp Tan Adaptive Cruise Control *
F53 – –Spare
Cavity Cartridge Fuse Mini-Fuse Description
* If Equipped

21_LD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 266

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE267
REAR INTERIOR FUSES
There is also a power distribution center located
in the trunk under the spare tire access panel.
This center contains fuses and relays. Fuse cavity
location and descriptions are printed on the inside
of the power distribution center cover.

Rear Power Distribution Center

CavityCartridge Fuse Mini-Fuse Description
* If Equipped
F02 60 Amp Yellow –Front PDC Feed #1
F03 – –Spare
F04 60 Amp Yellow –Front PDC Feed #2
F05 30 Amp Pink
20 Amp Blue – Police –
Sunroof / Dome Lamp (Police)
F06 40 Amp Green –Exterior Lighting #1
F07 40 Amp Green –Exterior Lighting #2
F08 30 Amp Pink –Interior Lighting
F09 40 Amp Green –Power Locks
F10 30 Amp Pink –Driver Door Control Module
F11 30 Amp Pink –Passenger Door Control Module
F12 –20 Amp Yellow Cigar Lighter / IP APO / RR USB (Selectable Fuse)*
8

21_LD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 267

268SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
F15 40 Amp Green –HVAC Blower
F16 20 Amp Blue –Left Spot Lamp (Police)
F17 20 Amp Blue –Right Spot Lamp (Police)
F18 30 Amp Pink –VISM Mod (Police)
F19 – –Spare
F20 – –Spare
F21 30 Amp Pink –Fuel Pump (Non 6.2L ADR)
F22 – 5 Amp Tan Cyber Gateway Mod
F23 –10 Amp Red Fuel Door * / Diagnostic Port
F24 –10 Amp Red Integrated Center Stack
F25 –10 Amp Red Tire Pressure Monitor
F26 –15 Amp Blue Trans Mod (Charger Non- Police/300)
F27 –25 Amp Clear Amplifier *
F31 –25 Amp Breaker Power Seats *
F32 –15 Amp Blue HVAC Module / Cluster
F33 –15 Amp Blue Ignition Switch / Wireless Mod / Steer Clmn Lock Mod/Remote Start *
F34 –10 Amp Red Steering Column Module / Clock (300)
F35 – 5 Amp Tan Battery Sensor
F36 –15 Amp Blue Electronic Exhaust Valve *
F37 –20 Amp Yellow Radio
CavityCartridge Fuse Mini-Fuse Description
* If Equipped

21_LD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 268

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE269
F38 –20 Amp Yellow Media Hub / Console APO
F42 30 Amp Pink –Rear Defrost
F43 –20 Amp Yellow RR Heated Seat */ Heated Steering Wheel *
F44 –10 Amp Red Park Assist / Blind Spot / Rear View Camera *
F45 –15 Amp Blue Cluster / Rearview Mirror / Lane Departure
F46 – –Spare
F47 –10 Amp Red Adaptive Front Lighting / Day Time Running Lamps *
F49 – –Spare
F50 – –Spare
F51 –20 Amp Yellow Front Heated / Vented Seats *
F52 –10 Amp Red Heated Cupholders / Rear Heated Seat Switches *
F53 –10 Amp Red HVAC Module / In Vehicle Temperature Sensor
F54 – –Spare
F55 – –Spare
F56 – –Spare
F57 – –Spare
F58 –10 Amp Red Airbag Module
CavityCartridge Fuse Mini-Fuse Description
* If Equipped
8

21_LD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 269

270SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
F59 –20 Amp Yellow Adjustable Pedals (Police)
F60 – –Spare
F61 – –Spare
F62 – –Spare
F63 – –Spare
F64 –25 Amp Breaker Rear Windows (Charger / 300) (Circuit Breaker)
F65 –10 Amp Red Airbag Module
F66 – –Spare
F67 –10 Amp RedRain and Light Sensor / Sunroof / Inside RR View Mirror / Police Run Acc
Relay
F68 –10 Amp Red RR USB Timer/ RR Sunshade *
F69 – –Spare
F70 – –Spare
Cavity Cartridge Fuse Mini-Fuse Description
* If Equipped

21_LD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 270