instrument panel DODGE NEON 2004 2.G Workshop Manual

Operating Tips
108 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Window Fogging
Vehicle side windows tend to fog on the inside in mild
rainy or humid weather. To clear the windows, use the
A/C, PANEL and blower controls. Direct the panel
outlets toward the side windows. Do not use recirculate
without A/C for long periods as fogging may occur.
Interior fogging on the windshield can be quickly re-
moved by using the defrost position.
If the fogging problem persists, clean the inside window
surfaces. The cause of undue fogging may be dirt collect-
ing on the inside surface of the glass
NOTE:In cold weather, the use of the recirculate
position will cause windows to fog on the inside because
of moisture build up inside the vehicle. For maximum
defogging, use the Outside Air position.
Summer Operation
Air conditioned vehicles must be protected with a high-
quality antifreeze coolant to provide proper corrosion
protection and to raise the boiling point of the coolant for
protection against overheating. A 50% concentration is
recommended.
Outside Air Intake
When operating the system during the winter months,
make sure the air intake, directly in front of the wind-
shield, is free of ice, slush, snow or other obstructions
such as leaves. Leaves collected in the air-intake plenum
may reduce air flow and plug the plenum water drains.
The blower air will heat faster in cold weather if you use
only a low blower speed for the first few minutes of
vehicle operation.
Side Window Demisters
A side window demister outlet is at each end of the
instrument panel. These nonadjustable outlets direct air
toward the side windows when the system is in either the
FLOOR, MIX, or DEFROST mode. The air is directed at
the area of the windows through which you view the
outside mirrors.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 109
4

ELECTRIC REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER
A push-button at the center of the instrument
panel, below the radio, turns the defroster and the
heated mirrors (if equipped) ON or OFF. An amber light
shows that the defroster is on.
NOTE:The defroster turns off automatically after 10
minutes of operation. Each following activation of the
defroster will last for five minutes.
CAUTION!
To avoid damaging the electrical conductors, do not
use scrapers, sharp instruments, or abrasive window
cleaners on the interior surface of the rear window.
Labels can be peeled off after soaking with warm
water.
110 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Glass Surfaces
All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a regular basis
with any commercial household-type glass cleaner.
Never use an abrasive type cleaner. Use caution when
cleaning inside rear windows equipped with electric
defrosters. Do not use scrapers or other sharp instru-
ments which may scratch the elements.
Instrument Panel Cover
The instrument panel cover has a low glare surface which
minimizes reflections in the windshield. Do not use
protectants or other products which may cause undesir-
able reflections. Use soap and warm water to restore the
low glare surface.
Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses
The lenses in front of the instruments in the vehicle are
molded in clear plastic. When cleaning the lenses, care
must be taken to avoid scratching the plastic.1. Clean with a wet soft rag. A mild soap solution may be
used, but do not use high alcohol content of abrasive
cleaners. If soap is used, wipe clean with a clean damp
rag.
2. Dry with a soft tissue.
Seat Belt Maintenance
Do not bleach, dye or clean the belts with chemical
solvents or abrasive cleaners. This will weaken the fabric.
Sun damage will also weaken the fabric.
If the belts need cleaning, use a mild soap solution or
lukewarm water. Do not remove the belts from the
vehicle to wash them.
Replace the belts if they appear frayed or worn or if the
buckles do not work properly.
194 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

FUSES
Underhood Fuses (Power Distribution Center)
A Power Distribution Center is located in the engine
compartment; next to the battery. A label identifying the
components and circuits is located on the underside of
the cover.
Interior Fuses
The fuse access panel is behind the end cover at the left
side of the instrument panel. To remove the panel, pull it
out, as shown. A diagram identifying the components
and circuits is located on the inside of the cover.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 195
7

Gauge.............................. 81
Light............................... 81
Octane Rating........................ 141
Tank Capacity........................ 200
Fuel System Caution.................... 144
Fuses................................ 195
GasCap .............................. 145
Gasoline............................. 200
Gasoline, Reformulated.................. 142
Gasoline/Oxygenate Blends............... 142
Gauges
Coolant Temperature................... 82
Fuel................................ 81
Tachometer.......................... 79
Gearshift............................. 117
General Information...................... 13
Glass Cleaning......................... 194
Hazard Warning Flasher.................. 152
Head Restraints......................... 57
Headlights............................. 61
Bulb Replacement..................... 197Cleaning............................ 193
High Beam........................... 79
Switch.............................. 61
Heater............................... 102
Hood Prop............................ 59
Hood Release.......................... 58
Hoses............................... 184
Ignition
Key ................................. 9
Wiring System....................... 174
Immobilizer.......................... 11,21
Infant Restraint......................... 40
Inside Rearview Mirror................... 51
Instrument Cluster................75,76,77,78
Instrument Panel and Controls.............. 74
Instrument Panel Cover.................. 194
Instrument Panel Lens Cleaning............ 194
Interior Appearance Care................. 193
Interior Fuses.......................... 195
Interior Lights.......................... 60
Intermittent Wipers...................... 63
Introduction............................ 4
234 INDEX