instrument panel DODGE NITRO 2009 1.G Owners Manual

Mode Control
The mode control allows you to
choose from several patterns of air
distribution. You can select either a
primary mode, as identified by the
symbols, or a blend of two of these
modes. The closer the control is to a
particular mode, the more air distribu-
tion you receive from that mode.
Panel
Air is directed through the four outlets in the instru-
ment panel. These outlets can be adjusted to direct
air flow.
Bi-Level
Air is directed through the panel and floor outlets.
NOTE:There is a difference in temperature between the
upper and lower outlets for added comfort. The warmerair goes to the floor outlets. This feature gives improved
comfort during sunny but cool conditions.
Floor
Air is directed through the floor outlets and side
window demist outlets with a small amount
through the defrost outlet.
Mix
Air is directed through the floor, defrost and side
window demist outlets. This setting works best in
cold or snowy conditions that require extra heat at
the windshield. This setting is good for maintaining
comfort while reducing moisture on the windshield.
Defrost
Air is directed through the windshield and side
window demist outlets. Use this mode with maxi-
mum fan and temperature (Hot) settings for best wind-
shield and side window defrosting.
250 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

NOTE:The air conditioning compressor operates in
both MIX and DEFROST or a blend of these modes even
if the fan switch is not in the A/C position. This dehu-
midifies the air to help dry the windshield. To improve
fuel economy, use these modes only when necessary.
Recirculation Control
Press the mode control knob to activate the
recirculation mode. A lamp in the knob will
illuminate when you are in recirculate mode.
Press the knob again to deactivate the system.
Only use the recirculation mode to temporarily block out
any outside odors, smoke, or dust and to cool the interior
rapidly upon initial start up in very hot or humid
weather.
NOTE:Continuous use of the recirculation mode may
make the inside air stuffy and window fogging may
occur. Extended use of this mode is not recommended.In cold or damp weather, the use of the recirculation
mode will cause windows to fog on the inside because of
moisture build up inside the vehicle. For maximum
defogging, select the Outside Air position.
NOTE:Recirculation mode will not operate in FLOOR,
MIX or DEFROST modes.Air Conditioning Operation
Press the temperature control knob to activate the
air conditioning mode. A lamp will illuminate
when the air conditioning system is engaged.
Press the knob again to deactivate the system.
NOTE:The air conditioning compressor will not engage
until the engine has been running for about 10 seconds.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 251
4

Operating Tips
Window Fogging
Windows will fog on the inside when the humidity inside
the vehicle is high. This often occurs in mild or cool
temperatures when it’s rainy or humid. In most cases,
turning on the air conditioning (pressing the “Snow-
flake” button) will clear the fog. Adjust the temperature
control, air direction, and blower speed to maintain
comfort.
As the temperature gets colder, it may be necessary to
direct air onto the windshield. Adjust the temperature
control and blower speed to maintain comfort. Higher
blower speeds will reduce fogging. Interior fogging on
the windshield can be quickly removed by selecting the
DEFROST mode.
Regular cleaning of the inside of the windows with a
non-filming cleaning solution (vinegar and water works
very well) will help prevent contaminants (cigarettesmoke, perfumes, etc.) from sticking to the windows.
Contaminants increase the rate of window fogging.Summer Operation
Air conditioned vehicles must be protected with a high
quality antifreeze coolant during summer to provide
proper corrosion protection and to raise the boiling point
of the coolant for protection against overheating. A 50%
concentration is recommended. Refer to Fluids and
Genuine Parts in Section 7 for the proper coolant type.
When using the air conditioner in extremely heavy traffic
in hot weather especially when towing a trailer, addi-
tional engine cooling may be required. If this situation is
encountered, operate the transmission in a lower gear to
increase engine RPM, coolant flow and fan speed. When
stopped in heavy traffic, it may be necessary to shift into
NEUTRAL and depress the accelerator slightly for fast
idle operation to increase coolant flow and fan speed.
252 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Your air conditioning system is also equipped with an
automatic recirculation system. When the system senses
a heavy load or high heat conditions, it may use partial
recirculation A/C mode to provide additional comfort.
Winter Operation
When operating the system during the winter months,
make sure the air intake, located directly in front of the
windshield, is free of ice, slush, snow, or other
obstructions.
Vacation Storage
Any time you store your vehicle or keep it out of service
(i.e., vacation) for two weeks or more, run the air
conditioning system at idle for about five minutes in the
fresh air and high blower setting. This will ensure
adequate system lubrication to minimize the possibility
of compressor damage when the system is started again.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 253
4

Infant Restraint........................65,66
Inflation Pressure Tires.................... 306
Information Center, Vehicle................. 191
Inside Rearview Mirror.................... 83
Instrument Cluster....................173,174
Instrument Panel and Controls.............. 172
Instrument Panel Lens Cleaning............. 396
Integrated Power Module (Fuses)............ 396
Interior Appearance Care.................. 395
Interior Lights.......................... 132
Intermittent Wipers (Delay Wipers)........... 133
Introduction............................. 4
Inverter, Power......................... 156
Jack Location........................... 356
Jack Operation.......................356,358
Jacking Instructions...................... 358
Key, Programming........................ 16Key, Replacement........................ 15
Key, Sentry (Immobilizer)................... 14
Key-In Reminder......................... 13
Keyless Entry System...................... 19
Keys................................. 12
Lap/Shoulder Belts....................... 38
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether
for CHildren).........................69,71
Lead Free Gasoline...................... 326
Leaks, Fluid............................ 77
Life of Tires............................ 311
Liftgate................................ 36
Lights..............................77,129
Airbag............................63,181
Alarm............................77,176
Anti-Lock........................... 180
Back-Up............................ 406
Brake Assist Warning................... 295
INDEX 445
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