Dodge Caliber 2009 User Manual

2009
OWNER’S MANUAL
CALIBER SRT4
VEHICLES SOLD IN CANADA
With respect to any Vehicles Sold in Canada, the name Chrysler LLC shall be deemed to be deleted and the name Chrysler Canada Inc. used in substitution therefor.
DRIVING AND ALCOHOL
Drunken driving is one of the most frequent causes of accidents.
Your driving ability can be seriously impaired with blood alcohol levels far below the legal minimum. If you are drinking, don’t drive. Ride with a designated non-drinking driver, call a cab, a friend, or use public transportation.
WARNING!
Driving after drinking can lead to an accident. Your perceptions are less sharp, your reflexes are slower, and your judgment is impaired when you have been drinking. Never drink and then drive.
This manual illustrates and describes the operation of features and equipment that are either standard or op­tional on this vehicle. This manual may also include a description of features and equipment that are no longer available or were not ordered on this vehicle. Please disregard any features and equipment described in this manual that are not on this vehicle.
Chrysler LLC reserves the right to make changes in design and specifications, and/or make additions to or improvements to its products without imposing any obligation upon itself to install them on products previ­ously manufactured.
Copyright © 2008 Chrysler LLC
SECTION PAGE
1
INTRODUCTION
2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE
4
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
5
STARTING AND OPERATING
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
9
IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
.............................................................3
...............................9
...............................73
................................... 157
................................................. 247
...............................................305
............................................... 323
..................................................363
..........................................381
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
INDEX
....................................................................391
10
CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

1
Introduction ........................... 4
How To Use This Manual .................. 4
Warnings And Cautions ................... 6
Vehicle Identification Number ............... 6
Vehicle Modifications/Alterations ............ 7
4 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

This Owner’s Manual has been prepared with the assis­tance of service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with the operation and maintenance of your vehicle. It is supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and various customer-oriented documents. You are urged to read these publications carefully. Following the instructions and recommendations in this manual will help assure safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle.
NOTE: After you read the manual, it should be stored in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with the vehicle when sold, so that the new owner will be aware of all safety warnings.
When it comes to service, remember that your authorized dealer knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained technicians and genuine Moparparts, and is interested in your satisfaction.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

Consult the Table of Contents to determine which section contains the information you desire.
The detailed Index at the back of this Owner’s Manual contains a complete listing of all subjects.
Consult the following table for a description of the symbols that may be used on your vehicle or throughout this Owner’s Manual:
INTRODUCTION 5
1
6 INTRODUCTION

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

This Owner’s Manual contains WARNINGS against op- erating procedures that could result in an accident or bodily injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against proce­dures that could result in damage to your vehicle. If you do not read this entire manual, you may miss important information. Observe all Warnings and Cautions.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is found on the left front corner of the instrument panel, visible through the windshield. This number also appears on the vehicle registration and title.
Vehicle Identification Number

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS/ALTERATIONS

WARNING!
Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle could seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety and may lead to an accident resulting in serious injury or death.
INTRODUCTION 7
1

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS
A Word About Your Keys ................. 12
Ignition Key Removal .................. 12
Locking Doors With The Key ............. 15
Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................ 15
Steering Wheel Lock — If Equipped ......... 15
To Manually Lock The Steering Wheel ....... 15
To Release The Steering Wheel Lock ........ 15
Sentry Key........................... 16
Replacement Keys ..................... 17
2
Customer Key Programming ............. 18
General Information .................... 19
Vehicle Security Alarm System — If Equipped . . 19
To Set The Security Alarm ............... 19
To Disarm The System .................. 20
Vehicle Security Alarm System Manual
Override ............................ 20
Remote Keyless Entry — If Equipped ......... 20
To Unlock The Doors And Liftgate ......... 21
10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Remote Key Unlock, Driver Door/All First
Press .............................. 21
Illuminated Approach — If Equipped ....... 22
To Lock The Doors And Liftgate ........... 22
Sound Horn With Remote Key Lock ........ 23
Flash Lights With Remote Key
Lock/Unlock ......................... 24
Using The Panic Alarm ................. 24
Programming Additional Transmitters ....... 25
General Information .................... 25
RKE Transmitter Battery Replacement ....... 26
Door Locks ........................... 27
Manual Door Locks .................... 27
Power Door Locks ..................... 28
Child-Protection Door Lock System (Rear
Doors) — If Equipped .................. 30
Power Windows — If Equipped ............ 32
Power Window Switches ................ 32
Auto Down .......................... 33
Window Lockout Switch ................ 33
Liftgate .............................. 34
Occupant Restraints ..................... 35
Lap/Shoulder Belts .................... 36
Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage . . . 41
Second Row Center Lap/Shoulder Belt
Operating Instructions .................. 42
Seat Belt Pretensioners .................. 45
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11
Enhanced Driver And Seat Belt Reminder
System (BeltAlert) .................... 46
Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ........... 47
Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) - Airbag ............ 48
Child Restraint ....................... 61
Engine Break-In Recommendations .......... 69
Safety Tips ............................ 70
Exhaust Gas ......................... 70
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle ............................. 71
Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make
Outside The Vehicle .................... 72
2
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS

The authorized dealer that sold you your new vehicle has the key code numbers for your vehicle locks. These numbers can be used to order duplicate keys. Ask your authorized dealer for these numbers and keep them in a safe place.
Vehicle Key

Ignition Key Removal

Automatic Transmission — If Equipped
1. Place the shift lever in PARK.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the ACC (Accessory) position.
3. Push the key and cylinder inward and rotate the key to the LOCK position.
4. Remove the key from the ignition switch lock cylinder.
Ignition Switch Positions
1 — LOCK 3 — ON 2 — ACC (ACCESSORY) 4 — START
NOTE: If you try to remove the key before you place the shift lever in PARK, the key may become trapped tem­porarily in the ignition switch cylinder. If this occurs, rotate the key to the right slightly, then remove the key as
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13
described. If a malfunction occurs, the system will trap the key in the ignition cylinder to warn you that this safety feature is inoperable. The engine can be started and stopped but the key cannot be removed until you obtain service.
WARNING!
Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving unattended children in a vehicle is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seri­ously or fatally injured. Do not leave the keys in the ignition. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.
2
14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
CAUTION!
An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always remove the key from the ignition and lock all the doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
Manual Transmission
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ACC (Accessory) position.
2. Push the key and cylinder inward and rotate the key to the LOCK position.
3. Remove the key from the ignition switch lock cylinder.
Ignition Switch Positions
1 — LOCK 3 — ON 2 — ACC (ACCESSORY) 4 — START
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15

Locking Doors With The Key

You can insert the key with either side up. To lock the door, turn the key to the right. To unlock the door, turn the key to the left. Refer to “Body Lubrication” under “Maintenance Procedures” in Section 7.

Key-In-Ignition Reminder

Opening the driver’s door when the key is in the ignition sounds a signal to remind you to remove the key.
NOTE: With the driver’s door open and the key in the ignition, the power door locks and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter will not function.
STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED
Your manual transmission vehicle is equipped with a passive steering wheel lock. This lock prevents steering the vehicle without the ignition key. If the steering wheel is moved no more than 1/2 turn in either direction and the key is not in the ignition switch, the steering wheel will lock.

To Manually Lock The Steering Wheel

With the engine running, turn the steering wheel upside down, turn off the engine and remove the key. Turn the steering wheel slightly in either direction until the lock engages.

To Release The Steering Wheel Lock

Insert the key in the ignition switch and start the engine. If the key is difficult to turn, move the wheel slightly to the right or left to disengage the lock.
NOTE: If you turned the wheel to the right to engage the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it.
2
16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

SENTRY KEY

The Sentry KeyImmobilizer System prevents unautho­rized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked.
The system uses ignition keys that have an embedded electronic chip (transponder) to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only keys that are pro­grammed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in two seconds if someone uses an invalid key to try to start the engine.
NOTE: A key that has not been programmed is also considered an invalid key, even if it is cut to fit the ignition switch lock cylinder for that vehicle.
During normal operation, after turning on the ignition switch, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on for three
seconds for a bulb check. If the light remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the Vehicle Security Light begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone used an invalid key to try to start the engine. Either of these conditions will result in the engine being shut off after two seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Light turns on during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for longer than 10 sec­onds), it indicates that there is a fault in the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
NOTE:
The Sentry KeyImmobilizer System is not compat­ible with some aftermarket remote starting systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of security protection.
Exxon/Mobil Speedpass™, additional Sentry Keys, or any other transponder-equipped components on the same key chain will not cause a key-related (transponder) fault unless the additional part is physi- cally held against the ignition key being used when starting the vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other Radio Frequency (RF) electronics will not cause inter­ference with this system.
All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle electronics.

Replacement Keys

NOTE: Only keys that are programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle. Once a Sentry Keyis programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be programmed to any other vehicle.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17
CAUTION!
Always remove the Sentry Keysfrom the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unat­tended.
At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided with a four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). Keep the PIN in a secure location. This number is required for authorized dealer replacement of keys. Du­plication of keys may be performed at an authorized dealer or by following the customer key programming procedure. This procedure consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle electronics. A blank key is one that has never been programmed.
NOTE: When having the Sentry KeyImmobilizer System serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to an authorized dealer.
2
18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Customer Key Programming

If you have two valid Sentry Keys, you can program new Sentry Keysto the system by performing the following procedure:
1. Cut the additional Sentry KeyTransponder blank(s) to match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code.
2. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position for at least three seconds, but no longer than 15 seconds. Then, turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the first key.
3. Insert the second valid key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position within 15 seconds. After 10 seconds, a chime will sound. In addition, the Vehicle Security Light will begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the second key.
4. Insert a blank Sentry Keyinto the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position within 60 seconds. After 10 seconds, a single chime will sound. In addition, the Vehicle Security Light will stop flashing. To indicate that programming is complete, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on again for three seconds and then turn off.
The new Sentry Keyis programmed. The Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter will also be pro­grammed during this procedure.
Repeat this procedure to program up to eight keys. If you do not have a programmed Sentry Key, contact your authorized dealer for details.
NOTE: If a programmed key is lost, see your authorized dealer to have all remaining keys erased from the sys­tem’s memory. This will prevent the lost key from starting your vehicle. The remaining keys must then be
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19
reprogrammed. All vehicle keys must be taken to an authorized dealer at the time of service to be reprogrammed.

General Information

The Sentry Keysystem complies with FCC rules Part 15 and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following conditions:
This device may not cause harmful interference.
This device must accept any interference that may be received, including interference that may cause undes­ired operation.
VEHICLE SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
This Vehicle Security Alarm system monitors the doors, hood, liftgate, and ignition switch for unauthorized op­eration.
If something triggers the Vehicle Security Alarm system the horn will sound for 30 seconds and flash the lights for 60 seconds. If the triggering device is not deactivated, the horn will sound again after a five second delay for another 30 seconds. If the trigger remains present, this cycle will repeat for up to five minutes.

To Set The Security Alarm

1. Remove the key from the ignition switch and get out of the vehicle.
2. Lock the door using either the power door LOCK switch or the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter and close all doors.
2
20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
3. The Vehicle Security Light in the instrument cluster will flash rapidly for approximately 16 seconds. This shows that the system is arming. During this period, if a door is opened, the ignition switch is turned ON, or the power door locks are unlocked in any manner, the Vehicle Security Alarm will automatically disarm. After approximately 16 seconds, the Vehicle Security Light will flash slowly. This shows that the Vehicle Security Alarm system is fully armed.

To Disarm The System

1. Press UNLOCK on the RKE transmitter.
2. Starting the vehicle with a valid Sentry Keywill disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm. A valid key is one that is programmed to your vehicle. A valid key will disarm the Vehicle Security Alarm system; an invalid key will allow the engine to run for two seconds and stop.

Vehicle Security Alarm System Manual Override

The Vehicle Security Alarm system will not arm if you lock the doors using the manual door lock plunger.
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY — IF EQUIPPED
This system allows you to lock or unlock the doors and liftgate or activate the Panic Alarm from distances up to 66 ft (20 m) using a handheld Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. The RKE transmitter does not need to be pointed at the vehicle to activate the system.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21
turn signal lights will flash to acknowledge the unlock signal. The illuminated entry system will also turn on.
Three Button RKE Transmitter
NOTE: The line of transmission must not be blocked
with metal objects.

To Unlock The Doors And Liftgate

Press and release the UNLOCK button on the REK transmitter once to unlock the driver’s door, or twice within five seconds to unlock all doors and liftgate. The

Remote Key Unlock, Driver Door/All First Press

This feature lets you program the system to unlock either the driver’s door or all doors on the first press of the UNLOCK button on the RKE transmitter. To change the current setting, proceed as follows:
For vehicles equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), refer to “RKE Unlock,” under “Personal Settings (Customer Programmable Features),” under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in Section 4.
For vehicles not equipped with the EVIC, perform the following steps:
1. Press and hold the LOCK button on a programmed RKE ransmitter for at least four seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds. Then, press and hold the UNLOCK button while still holding the LOCK button.
2
22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
2. Release both buttons at the same time.
3. Test the feature while outside of the vehicle by press­ing the LOCK/UNLOCK buttons on the RKE transmitter with the ignition switch in the LOCK position and the key removed.
4. Repeat these steps if you want to return this feature to its previous setting.
NOTE: Pressing the LOCK button on the RKE transmit­ter while you are inside the vehicle will activate the Security Alarm. Opening a door with the Security Alarm activated will cause the alarm to sound. Press the UN­LOCK button to deactivate the Security Alarm.
Illuminated Approach — If Equipped
This feature activates the headlights for up to 90 seconds when the doors are unlocked with the RKE transmitter. The time for this feature is programmable on vehicles equipped with the EVIC. Refer to “Illuminated Ap­proach,” under “Personal Settings (Customer Program­mable Features),” under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in Section 4.

To Lock The Doors And Liftgate

Press and release the LOCK button on the RKE transmit­ter to lock all doors and liftgate. The turn signal lights will flash and the horn will chirp to acknowledge the signal.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23

Sound Horn with Remote Key Lock

This feature will cause the horn to chirp when the doors are locked with the RKE transmitter. This feature can be turned on or turned off. To change the current setting, proceed as follows:
For vehicles equipped with the EVIC, refer to “Sound Horn with Lock,” under “Personal Settings (Customer Programmable Features),” under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in Section 4.
For vehicles not equipped with the EVIC, perform the following steps:
1. Press the LOCK button on a programmed RKE trans­mitter for at least 4 seconds, but no longer than 10 sec­onds. Then, press the PANIC button while still holding the LOCK button.
2. Release both buttons at the same time.
3. Test the feature while outside of the vehicle by press­ing the LOCK button on the RKE transmitter with the ignition switch in the LOCK position and the key re­moved.
4. Repeat these steps if you want to return this feature to its previous setting.
NOTE: Pressing the LOCK button on the RKE transmit­ter while you are in the vehicle will activate the Security Alarm. Opening a door with the Security Alarm activated will cause the alarm to sound. Press the UNLOCK button to deactivate the Security Alarm.
2
24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Flash Lights with Remote Key Lock/Unlock

This feature will cause the turn signal lights to flash when the doors are locked or unlocked with the RKE transmit­ter. This feature can be turned on or turned off. To change the current setting, proceed as follows:
For vehicles equipped with the EVIC, refer to “Flash Light With Lock,” under Personal Settings (Customer Programmable Features),” under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in Section 4.
For vehicles not equipped with the EVIC, perform the following steps:
1. Press and hold the UNLOCK button on a programmed RKE transmitter for at least 4 seconds, but no longer than 10 seconds. Then, press and hold the LOCK button while still holding the UNLOCK button.
2. Release both buttons at the same time.
3. Test the feature while outside of the vehicle by press­ing the LOCK/UNLOCK buttons on the RKE transmitter with the ignition switch in the LOCK position and the key removed.
4. Repeat these steps if you want to return this feature to its previous setting.
NOTE: Pressing the LOCK button on the RKE transmit­ter while you are in the vehicle will activate the Security Alarm. Opening a door with the Security Alarm activated will cause the alarm to sound. Press the UNLOCK button to deactivate the Security Alarm.

Using The Panic Alarm

To turn the Panic Alarm feature ON or OFF, press and hold the PANIC button on the RKE transmitter for at least one second and release. When the Panic Alarm is on, the headlights and park lights will flash, the horn will pulse on and off and the interior lights will turn on.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25
The Panic Alarm will stay on for three minutes unless you turn it off by pressing the PANIC button a second time or if the vehicle speed is 5 mph (8 km/h) or greater.
NOTE: When you turn off the Panic Alarm by pressing the PANIC button a second time, you may have to be closer to the vehicle due to the radio frequency noises of the system.

Programming Additional Transmitters

For more information, refer to Sentry Key “Customer Key Programming” procedure in this section of the manual.

General Information

This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules and with RS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference that may be received including interference that may cause undesired operation.
NOTE: Changes or modifications not expressly ap­proved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
If your RKE transmitter fails to operate from a normal distance, check for these two conditions:
1. Weak batteries in the RKE transmitter. The expected life of batteries is five years.
2. Closeness to a radio transmitter such as a radio station tower, airport transmitter, military base, and some mobile or CB radios.
2
26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

RKE Transmitter Battery Replacement

NOTE:
Perchlorate Material – special handling may ap-
ply. See “www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate.”
The recommended replacement battery is CR2032.
1. If the RKE transmitter is equipped with a screw, remove the screw. With the RKE transmitter buttons facing down, use a flat blade to pry the two halves of the RKE transmitter apart. Make sure not to damage the elastomer seal during removal.
Separating RKE Transmitter Halves
2. Remove and replace the batteries. Avoid touching the new batteries with your fingers. Skin oils may cause battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with rubbing alcohol.
3. To reassemble the RKE transmitter case, snap the two halves together.
NOTE: If the RKE transmitter is equipped with a screw, reinstall and tighten the screw until snug.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27
DOOR LOCKS Manual Door Locks
Use the manual door lock plunger to lock the doors from inside the vehicle. If the plunger is down when the door is closed, the door will lock. Make sure the keys are not inside the vehicle before closing the door.
Manual Door Lock Plunger
WARNING!
For personal security and safety in the event of an accident, lock the vehicle doors as you drive as well as when you park and leave the vehicle.
(Continued)
2
28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING! (Continued)
When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key from the ignition lock and lock your vehicle. Do not leave unattended children in the vehicle or with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of vehicle equipment may cause severe per­sonal injuries and death.
CAUTION!
An unlocked vehicle is an invitation to thieves. Always remove the key from the ignition and lock all of the doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.

Power Door Locks

A power door lock switch is located on the drivers door panel. Press this switch to lock or unlock the doors.
Power Door Lock Switch Location
Automatic Door Locks — If Equipped
The doors will lock automatically on vehicles with power door locks if all of the following conditions are met:
1. The Auto Lock feature is enabled.
2. The transmission is in gear.
Loading...
+ 381 hidden pages