Lubrication & Maintenance Chrysler Crossfire I final

Scheme 1

DaimlerChrysler Corporation uses international symbols to identify engine compartment lubricant and fluid inspection and fill locations.

Scheme 2

Lubricating grease is rated for quality and usage by the NLGI. All approved products have the NLGI symbol on the label. At the bottom NLGI symbol is the usage and quality identification letters. Wheel bearing lubricant is identified by the letter "G". Chassis lubricant is identified by the latter "L". The letter following the usage letter indicates the quality of the lubricant. The associated symbols indicate the highest quality.

When service is required, DaimlerChrysler Corporation recommends that only Mopar® brand parts, lubricants and chemicals be used. Mopar provides the best engineered products for servicing DaimlerChrysler Corporation vehicles.

POWER STEERING FLUID

No service required or recommended. Filled at the factory with Pentosin CHF 11S. Use Pentosin CHF 11S, Mopar® part number 05127381AA. Steering noise and reduced component life may result if an unapproved fluid is used.

FUEL REQUIREMENTS

Crossfire engines require the use of unleaded fuel to reduce exhaust emissions. Use premium unleaded gasoline having a minimum octane rating of 91 (R+M)/2. Higher octane premium unleaded gasoline can be used if desired.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Note. Refer to the maintenance schedules for the recommended maintenance (fluid/filter change) intervals for this transmission.

Note. For fluid level checking procedures, refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE .

Use ATF approved to MB 236.10, MB 236.12, such as Mopar® part number 05127382AA. Synthetic Dexron III® Automatic Transmission Fluid may be substituted.

FLUID ADDITIVES

Daimler Chrysler strongly recommends against the addition of any fluids to the transmission, other than those automatic transmission fluids listed above. Exceptions to this policy are the use of special dyes to aid in detecting fluid leaks.

Various "special" additives and supplements exist that claim to improve shift feel and/or quality. These additives and others also claim to improve converter clutch operation and inhibit overheating, oxidation, varnish, and sludge. These claims have not been supported to the satisfaction of Daimler Chrysler and these additives must not be used. The use of transmission "sealers" should also be avoided, since they may adversely affect the integrity of transmission seals.

Manual Transmission Fluid

No service is required or recommended for the manual transmission. If required, use fluid approved to MB 236.2. SAE 5W-20 meeting API SL or GF-3 Engine Oil, such as Mopar® part number 04761872AB, may be substituted.

ENGINE COOLANT

The cooling system is designed around the coolant. The coolant must accept heat from engine metal, in the cylinder head area near the exhaust valves and engine block. Then coolant carries the heat to the radiator where the tube/fin radiator can transfer the heat to the air.

The use of aluminum cylinder blocks, cylinder heads, and water pumps requires special corrosion protection. Mopar® Antifreeze/Coolant, 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula (MS-9769), or the equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with hybrid organic corrosion inhibitors (called HOAT, for Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) is recommended. This coolant offers the best engine cooling without corrosion when mixed with 50% Ethylene Glycol and 50% distilled water to obtain a freeze point of -37°C (-35°F). If it loses color or becomes contaminated, drain, flush, and replace with fresh properly mixed coolant solution.

The green coolant MUST NOT BE MIXED with the orange or magenta coolants. When replacing coolant the complete system flush must be performed before using the replacement coolant.

DIFFERENTIAL LUBRICANT

Note. Refer to the Owner's Manual for the recommended differential lubricant change intervals for this axle.

Use synthetic SAE 75W-85 axle lubricant that meets MB 231.1, such as Mopar® 05126035AA. An SAE 80W-90 GL-5/MIL-2105-E Synthetic Axle Lubricant may be substituted. Reduced axle durability may result if an unapproved product is used.

BRAKE FLUID

Use brake fluid approved to MB 331.0, such as Mopar® part number 0454925AC, or a DOT 4 brake fluid with: minimum dry boiling point (ERBP) 500°F, minimum wet boiling point (WERBP) 356°F, maximum viscosity 1500 mm 2 /s, conforming to FMVSS 116 and ISO 4925.

ENGINE OIL AND LUBRICATION

When service is required, DaimlerChrysler Corporation recommends that only Mopar® brand parts, lubricants and chemicals be used. Mopar® provides the best engineered products for servicing DaimlerChrysler Corporation vehicles.

Only lubricants bearing designations defined by the following organization should be used.

1. Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
2. American Petroleum Institute (API)
3. National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI)

Scheme 3

Use synthetic engine oils, approved to MB 229.3 or MB 229.5, such as Mopar part number 05127394AA. Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or SAE 5W-40 engine oils approved to API SL and/or GF-3 may be substituted. The FSS mat not alert for an oil change at the proper interval if an unapproved product is used; engine damage and reduced engine life may result.

ENERGY CONSERVING OIL

An Energy Conserving type oil is recommended for gasoline engines. The designation of ENERGY CONSERVING is located on the label of an engine oil container.

LUBRICANTS AND GREASES

Lubricating grease is rated for quality and usage by the NLGI. All approved products have the NLGI symbol on the label. At the bottom of the NLGI symbol is the usage and quality identification letters. Wheel bearing lubricant is identified by the letter "G". Chassis lubricant is identified by the letter "L". The letter following the usage letter indicates the quality of the lubricant.

SPECIALIZED LUBRICANTS AND OILS

Some maintenance or repair procedures may require the use of specialized lubricants or oils. Consult the appropriate SERVICE INFORMATION articles for the correct application of these lubricants.

SPECIFICATIONS

DESCRIPTION - FLUID FILL/CHECK LOCATIONS

The fluid fill/check locations are noted, and located in each of the applicable Service Information articles.

DESCRIPTION - LUBRICATION POINTS

Lubrication points are noted, and located in each of the applicable Service Information articles.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES - ALL

There are two maintenance schedules that show the required service for your vehicle.

Schedule "A" typically rotates with Schedule "B." Follow Schedule "A" after the first service interval, Schedule "B" after the second service interval, and so on. In some cases where the service interval has been extended due to very light duty driving, a Schedule "B" service may be indicated following a previous Schedule "B" service. There are additional service tasks required under Schedule "B."

Your Flexible Service System (FSS) - see Understanding Your Instrument Panel section of the Owner's Manual- should give you an exact indication of when your vehicle should be scheduled for service and which schedule to follow.

Additional Periodic Maintenance items should also be performed beyond the items listed in the following charts to assure the optimum performance of your Crossfire.

FSS SYSTEM

The Flexible Service System (FSS) permits a flexible service schedule that is directly related to the operating conditions of the vehicle. See the Understanding Your Instrument Panel section of the Owner's Manual for details on how to use the FSS.

The oil change interval for your Crossfire is initially set at 7,000 miles (11,000 km). Very light duty driving cycles (most trips more than 10 miles [16 km] at moderate speeds in moderate temperature conditions) can extend the service interval beyond 7,000 miles (11,000 km). If ANY of the following apply to your driving, the oil change interval can be reduced significantly

1. Day or night temperatures are below 32°F (0°C).
2. Stop and go driving.
3. Extensive engine idling.
4. Driving in dusty conditions.
5. Short trips of less than 10 miles (16 km).
6. More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high speeds during hot weather, above 90°F (32°C).

There are two symbols which will appear in the main odometer display field prior to the next suggested service.

Scheme 4

This symbol represents Service A.

Scheme 5

This second symbol represents Service B. Service B rotates with Service A and includes additional service tasks.

The next service is normally calculated and displayed next to the Service A or Service B symbol as distance remaining before the next service is required.

Scheme 6

Depending on operating conditions throughout the year, a clock symbol may appear next to the service symbol. When this occurs, the next service is calculated and displayed in days remaining before the next service is required.

You should have the maintenance performed within the stated time period or distance.

Following a completed A or B service your authorized dealer sets the counter to 7,000 miles (11,000 km).

Note. When disconnecting vehicle battery for one or more days at a time, such days will not be counted. Any such days not counted by FSS can be added by your authorized dealer.

The interval between services is determined by the type of vehicle operation. Driving at extreme speeds, and cold starts combined with short distance driving in which the engine does not reach normal operating temperature, reduce the interval between services.

Regardless of the service interval determined by your FSS, the scheduled services as posted must be followed to properly care for your vehicle.

SCOPE OF WORK FOR "A" SCHEDULE MAINTENANCE SERVICE

Oil Change

1. Change oil and replace filter

Maintenance

1. Lubricate hood hinges, latch, and secondary latch
2. Reset FSS Display

Function Check

1. Horn, hazard warning flashers, turn signals, and indicator lamps
2. Headlamps and exterior lighting
3. Windshield wipers and washer system

Inspection

1. Check front and rear brake pads for lining thickness
2. Check tires for damage and general condition
3. Check tire inflation pressures and correct if necessary

Fluid Levels

Check fluid levels for the following systems and correct if necessary. Should there be a loss of fluid that cannot be explained by regular use, trace and eliminate the cause.

1. Engine cooling system (check corrosion inhibitor/antifreeze)
2. Hydraulic brake system
3. Power steering system
4. Windshield washer system

SCOPE OF WORK FOR "B" SCHEDULE MAINTENANCE SERVICE

Oil Change

1. Change oil and replace filter

Maintenance

1. Rotate tires
2. Replace dust filter (if equipped)
3. Lubricate hood hinges, latch, and secondary latch
4. Reset FSS Display

Function Check

1. Horn, hazard warning flashers, turn signals, and indicator lamps
2. Headlamps and exterior lighting
3. Windshield wipers and washer system
4. Check seat belts for damage and proper function
5. Test hydraulic brakes and check parking brake function

Inspection

1. Check front and rear brake pads for lining thickness
2. Check condition of front and rear brake discs
3. Check tires for damage and general condition
4. Check tire inflation pressures and correct if necessary
5. Check major underbody components for leakage or damage (if there are signs of leakage, determine cause and repair)
6. Check condition of front axle ball joints and rubber boots
7. Check condition of steering components and rubber boots
8. Check underhood components for leakage or damage (if there are signs of leakage determine cause and repair)
9. Check condition of accessory drive belt
10. Check headlamp aiming, adjust if necessary
11. Check windshield wiper blades, replace if necessary

Fluid Levels

Check fluid levels for the following systems and correct if necessary. Should there be a loss of fluid that cannot be explained by regular use, trace and eliminate the cause.

1. Engine cooling system (check corrosion inhibitor/antifreeze)
2. Hydraulic brake system
3. Power steering system
4. Windshield washer system

REGULAR CHECK UPS

To maintain the safe operation of your vehicle, it is recommended that you perform the following tasks on a regular basis (i.e., weekly or whenever the vehicle is refueled).

At Each Stop for Fuel

1. Check the engine oil level about 5 minutes after a fully warmed engine is shut off. Checking the oil level while the vehicle is on level ground will improve the accuracy of the oil level reading. See the procedure described in Checking Your Engine Oil in the Understanding Your Instrument Panel section or under Engine Oil in the Maintaining Your Vehicle section in the Owner's Manual. Add oil only when the level is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
2. Check the windshield washer solvent and add if required.
3. Inspect wiper blade condition.
4. Check operation of lighting systems.
5. Inspect tires for unusual wear, damage, and pressure (at least every 14 days).
6. Mechanical assemblies (e.g., engine, transmission, etc.) - check for leaks.

Once a Month

1. Inspect the battery and clean and tighten the terminals as required.
2. Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir, brake master cylinder and power steering and add as needed.
3. Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct operation.

Additional Periodic Maintenance

The following maintenance items should be performed during the scheduled maintenance nearest the time elapsed and/or distance shown. Follow the interval that occurs first.

Every 2 years

1. Inspect body for paint damage.
2. Check chassis and supporting body parts for damage and corrosion.

At approximately every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 4 years

1. Check condition of driveshaft flex discs.
2. Retighten locking bolts for steering (observe torque).

At approximately every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years

1. Replace fuel filter.
2. Replace air cleaner filter element.

At approximately 80,000 miles (128,000 km)

1. Change the automatic transmission fluid and filter. Use the recommended automatic transmission fluid. After this change it is filled for life. The manual transmission comes filled for life from the factory.

At approximately every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years

1. Replace spark plugs.

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years

1. Replace engine coolant using coolant approved to MB 325.0, such as Valvoline GO5, or an equivalent extended life coolant.

SPECIAL MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS

Coolant

Have the corrosion inhibitor/antifreeze concentration in the coolant checked before the onset of winter (once a year in countries with high prevailing temperatures). Have the coolant replaced every five years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Dust Filter for Heating/Ventilation Replacement (If Equipped)

The dust filter is replaced during routine maintenance service. The filter element must be replaced with "B" Schedule service or every 18,500 miles (30,000 km) to maintain effectiveness. However, if operating conditions are dusty, these filters should be replaced more frequently. A cover in the HVAC unit that can be reached from the passenger foot well provides access to the filter element.

ENGINE OIL CHANGE AND FILTER REPLACEMENT

The recommended oil and filter change interval is based on FSS or 1 year. Please refer to the heading FSS System for a full description of the use and interpretation of symbols in the FSS system. Only use synthetic engine oils, approved to MB229.3 or MB229.5, such as Mobil1 SAE 0W-40. The FSS may not alert for an oil change at the proper interval if an unapproved engine oil is used; engine damage and reduced engine life may result. Information is available from your authorized dealer. The oil filter should always be changed when the oil is changed.

Scheme 7

The vehicle can be lifted with

1. A twin-post, chassis hoist.
2. A ramp-type, drive-on hoist.

FLOOR JACK

When properly positioned, a floor jack can be used to lift the vehicle. Support the vehicle in the raised position with jack stands at the front and rear ends of the frame rails.

STANDARD PROCEDURE

TO JUMP START A DISABLED VEHICLE

Scheme 8

1. Raise hood on disabled vehicle and visually inspect engine compartment for: Battery cable clamp condition, clean if necessary. Frozen battery. Yellow or bright color test indicator, if equipped. Low battery fluid level. Generator drive belt condition and tension. Fuel fumes or leakage, correct if necessary.
2. When using another vehicle as a booster source, park the booster vehicle within cable reach. Turn off all accessories, set the parking brake, place the automatic transmission in PARK or the manual transmission in NEUTRAL and turn the ignition OFF.
3. On disabled vehicle, place gear selector in park or neutral and set park brake. Turn off all accessories.
4. Connect positive jumper cable (4) to positive (+) terminal (5) of the disabled battery.
5. Connect other end of positive jumper cable (7) to positive terminal (+) booster battery.
6. Connect negative jumper cable to negative (-) terminal of the booster battery.
7. Make final connection of the negative (-) jumper cable (2) to the ENGINE GROUND (1) of disabled vehicle, away from battery. CAUTION: Do not crank the starter motor on the disabled vehicle for more than 15 seconds, the starter will overheat and could fail.
8. Start the engine in the vehicle which has the booster battery, let the engine idle a few minutes.
9. Allow the battery in disabled vehicle to charge to at least 12.4 volts (75% charge) before attempting to start the engine. If the engine does not start within 15 seconds, stop cranking engine and allow starter to cool (15 minutes), before cranking again.

DISCONNECT JUMPER CABLES AS FOLLOWS

1. Disconnect the negative (-) jumper cable from the engine ground on the disabled vehicle.
2. Disconnect the negative (-) jumper cable from the booster vehicle.
3. Disconnect positive (+) jumper cable from the battery positive (+) terminal on the disabled vehicle.
4. Disconnect positive (+) jumper cable from the battery positive (+) terminal on the booster vehicle.

DESCRIPTION

The tow hooks should be used for EMERGENCY purposes only.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Scheme 9

Flat bed towing should be the only method used for the Chrysler Crossfire. The flat bed must have an approach angle less then 13.3° or something must be used (such as wood slats) to raise the overall height of the vehicle during loading.

GROUND CLEARANCE

A towed vehicle should be raised until the lifted wheels are a minimum 100 mm (4 in.) from the ground. Be sure there is at least 100 mm (4 in.) clearance between the tail pipe and the ground. If necessary, remove the wheels from the lifted end of the vehicle and lower the vehicle closer to the ground, to increase the ground clearance at the rear of the vehicle. Install lug nuts on wheel attaching studs to retain brake rotors.

See also:
• STANDARD PROCEDURE