Jeep TJ (2006 year). Manual — part 19

• Check antifreeze/coolant freeze point in the radiator

and in the coolant recovery bottle. If antifreeze/
coolant needs to be added, contents of coolant recov-
ery bottle must also be protected against freezing.

• If frequent antifreeze/coolant additions are required,

or if the level in the recovery bottle does not drop
when the engine cools, the cooling system should be
pressure tested for leaks.

• Maintain antifreeze/coolant concentration at 50%

HOAT antifreeze/coolant (minimum) and distilled
water for proper corrosion protection of your engine
which contains aluminum components.

• Make sure that the radiator and coolant recovery

bottle 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, also.

• Do not change the thermostat for summer or winter

operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install
ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may
result in unsatisfactory cooling performance, poor gas
mileage, and increased emissions.

Hoses and Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses
Inspect surfaces of hoses and nylon tubing for evidence
of heat and mechanical damage. Hard or soft spots,
brittle rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, abrasions, and exces-
sive swelling indicate deterioration of the rubber.

Pay particular attention to the hoses nearest to high heat
sources such as the exhaust manifold. Inspect hose rout-
ing to be sure hoses do not touch any heat source or
moving component that may cause heat damage or
mechanical wear.

Insure nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or
collapsed. Inspect all hose connections such as clamps
and couplings to make sure they are secure and no leaks

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are present. Components should be replaced immedi-
ately if there is any evidence of degradation that could
cause failure.

Brake System
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically.
Refer to the appropriate “Maintenance Schedule” in
Section 8 for suggested service intervals.

WARNING!

Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and
possibly an accident. 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 wouldn’t have your full
braking capacity in an emergency.

Brake and Power Steering System Hoses
When servicing the vehicle for scheduled maintenance,
inspect surface of hoses for evidence of heat and me-
chanical damage. Hard and brittle rubber, cracking, tears,
cuts, abrasion, and excessive swelling suggest deteriora-
tion of the rubber. Particular attention should be made to
examining those hose surfaces nearest to high heat
sources, such as the exhaust manifold.

Inspect all hose clamps and couplings to make sure they
are secure and no leaks are present.

NOTE:

Inspection of brake hoses should be done when-

ever the brake system is serviced and every engine oil
change.

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WARNING!

Worn brake hoses can burst and cause brake failure.
You could have an accident. If you see any signs of
cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, have the brake
hoses replaced immediately.

Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked
when performing under hood services, or immediately if
the BRAKE warning light shows system failure

Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area before
removing the cap. If necessary, add fluid to bring the
fluid 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. Brake fluid level

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should be checked when pads are replaced. However,
low fluid level may be caused by a leak and a checkup
may be needed.

Use only manufacturer’s recommended brake fluid, refer
to Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts for correct fluid
type.

WARNING!

• Use of a brake fluid that may have a lower initial

boiling point or unidentified as to specification,
may result in sudden brake failure during hard
prolonged braking. You could have an accident.

• Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in

spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and the
brake fluid catching fire.

Use only brake fluid that has been in a tightly closed
container to avoid contamination from foreign matter. Do
not allow petroleum base fluid to contaminate the brake
fluid as seal damage will result.

Automatic Transmission

Selection of Lubricant
It is important that the proper lubricant is used in the
transmission to assure optimum transmission perfor-
mance. Use only manufacturer’s recommended transmis-
sion fluid, refer to Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts
for correct fluid type. It is important that the transmission
fluid be maintained at the prescribed level using the
recommended fluid.

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CAUTION!

Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turer’s recommended fluid may cause deterioration
in transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid will result in
more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to
Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts for correct
fluid type.

Fluid Level Check — 42RLE
This fluid level should be checked when the engine is
fully warmed up and the fluid in the transmission is
heated to its normal operating temperature. Operation of
the transmission with an improper fluid level will greatly
reduce the life of the transmission and of the fluid.

To check the automatic transmission fluid level properly,
the following procedure must be used:

1. The vehicle must be on level ground.

2. The engine should be running at curb idle speed for a
minimum of 60 seconds.

3. Fully apply parking brake.

4. Apply the brakes and shift the transmission momen-
tarily into each gear position ending in P (Park).

5. The fluid MUST be checked with the transmission in
P (Park) to be sure that the fluid level is accurate.

6. Wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert until seated.
Remove dipstick and note reading.

At normal operating temperature (approximately 180° F
(82° C), the fluid level is correct if it is in the HOT region

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(cross-hatched area) on the oil level indicator. The fluid
level indicator should be in the COLD region at 70° F (21°
C) fluid temperature.

If the fluid level is low, add sufficient fluid to bring to the
proper level. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Parts for correct fluid type.

Fluid is added through the dipstick tube.

NOTE:

To prevent dirt and water from entering the

transmission after checking or replenishing fluid, make
certain that the dipstick cap is properly reseated.

Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against the ad-
dition of any additives to the transmission. The only
exception to this policy is the use of special dyes to aid in
detecting fluid leaks. The use of transmission sealers
should be avoided as they may adversely affect seals.

Hydraulic Clutch Fluid — Manual Transmission
The clutch hydraulic system is a sealed maintenance free
system. In the event of leakage or other malfunction, the
system must be replaced.

Manual Transmission

Selection of Lubricant
Use only manufacturer’s recommended manual trans-
mission fluid, refer to Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
Parts for correct fluid type.

Fluid Level Check
Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug. The fluid
level should be between the bottom of the fill hole and a
point not more than 3/16” (4.76 mm) below the bottom of
the hole.

Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper level.

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Frequency of Fluid Change
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid installed at
the factory will give satisfactory lubrication for the life of
the vehicle. Fluid changes are not necessary unless the
lubricant has become contaminated with water. If con-
taminated with water, the fluid should be changed im-
mediately.

Transfer Case

Fluid Level Check
The fluid level should be to the bottom edge of the fill
hole (A) when the vehicle is in a level position.

Adding Fluid
Fluid should be added only at filler hole until fluid
begins to run out of the hole.

Drain
First remove fill plug (B), then drain plug (C). Recom-
mended tightening torque for drain and fill plugs is
15–25 ft.lbs. (20–34 N·m).

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CAUTION!

When replacing plugs, do not overtighten. You could
damage them and cause them to leak.

Selection of Lubricant
Use only manufacturer’s recommended fluid, refer to
Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts for correct fluid
type.

Front/Rear Axle Fluid

Fluid Level Check
Lubricant should be at bottom edge of the oil fill hole.

Adding Fluid
Add lubricant only at the fill hole and only to the level
specified above.

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Selection of Lubricant
Use only manufacturer’s recommended fluid, refer to
Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts for correct fluid
type.

Maintenance After Off-Road Driving
After extended operation in mud, sand or water, or
similar dirty conditions, have your brake drums, brake
linings, and axle joints inspected and cleaned as soon as
possible. This will prevent any abrasive material from
causing excessive wear or unpredictable braking action.

Following off-road usage, completely inspect the under-
body of your vehicle. Check tires, body structure, steer-
ing, suspension and exhaust system for damage. Check
threaded fasteners for looseness, particularly on the
chassis, drivetrain components, steering and suspension.
Retighten, if required, to torque values specified in the
Service Manual. Also check for accumulations of vegeta-
tion or brush that could become a fire hazard, or conceal

damage to fuel lines, brake hoses, axle pinion seals, and
propeller shafts. Check air conditioning drain tube on the
lower dash wall in the engine compartment for mud or
debris, and clean as required. A plugged tube will
adversely affect air conditioning performance.

CAUTION!

Under frequent heavy-duty driving conditions,
change all lubricants, and lubricate body compo-
nents and steering linkage more often than in nor-
mal service to prevent excessive wear.

Appearance Care And Protection From Corrosion

Protection Of Body And Paint From Corrosion
Vehicle body care requirements vary according to geo-
graphic locations and usage. Chemicals that make roads
passable in snow and ice, and those that are sprayed on

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trees and road surfaces during other seasons, are highly
corrosive to the metal in your vehicle. Outside parking,
which exposes your vehicle to airborne contaminants,
road surfaces on which the vehicle is operated, extreme
hot or cold weather and other extreme conditions will
have an adverse effect on paint, metal trim, and under-
body protection.

The following maintenance recommendations will enable
you to obtain maximum benefit from the corrosion
resistance built into your vehicle.

What Causes Corrosion?
Corrosion is the result of deterioration or removal of
paint and protective coatings from your vehicle.

The most common causes are:

• Road salt, dirt and moisture accumulation.
• Stone and gravel impact.

• Insects, tree sap and tar.
• Salt in the air near sea-coast localities.
• Atmospheric fallout/industrial pollutants.
• Bird droppings.

Washing

• Wash your vehicle regularly. Always wash your ve-

hicle in the shade using Mopar

威 Car Wash or a mild

car wash soap, and rinse the panels completely with
clear water.

• If insects, tar, or other similar deposits have accumu-

lated on your vehicle, use Mopar

威 Super Kleen Bug

and Tar Remover to remove.

• Use Mopar威 Cleaner Wax to remove road film, stains,

and to protect your paint finish. Take care never to
scratch the paint.

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• Avoid using abrasive compounds and power buffing

that may diminish the gloss or thin out the paint
finish.

CAUTION!

Do not use abrasive or strong cleaning materials
such as steel wool or scouring powder, which will
scratch metal and painted surfaces.

Special Care

• If you drive on salted or dusty roads or if you drive

near the ocean, hose off the undercarriage at least once
a month.

• It is important that the drain holes in the lower edges

of the doors, rocker panels and tailgate must be kept
clear and open.

• If you detect any stone chips or scratches in the paint,

touch them up immediately. The cost of such repairs is
considered the responsibility of the owner.

• If your vehicle is damaged due to an accident or

similar cause which destroys the paint and protective
coating have your vehicle repaired as soon as possible.
The cost of such repairs is considered the responsibil-
ity of the owner.

• Aluminum wheels should be cleaned regularly with a

mild soap and water to prevent corrosion. To remove
heavy soil, use Mopar

威 Wheel Cleaner or select a

nonabrasive, non-acidic cleaner. Do not use scouring
pads, steel wool, a bristle brush or metal polishes.
Only Mopar

威 cleaners are recommended. Do not use

oven cleaner. Avoid automatic car washes that use
acidic solutions or harsh brushes that may damage the
wheels’ protective finish.

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• If you carry special cargo such as chemicals, fertilizers,

de-icer salt, etc., assure that such materials are well
packaged and sealed.

• If a lot of driving is done on gravel roads, consider

mud or stone shields behind each wheel.

• Use Mopar威 Touch Up Paint on scratches or chips as

soon as possible. Your authorized dealer has touch up
paint to match the color of your vehicle.

Interior Care
Use Mopar

威 Total Clean to clean fabric upholstery and

carpeting.

Interior Trim should be cleaned starting with a damp
cloth, a damp cloth with Mopar

威 Total Clean, then

Mopar

威 Spot & Stain Remover if absolutely necessary. Do

not use harsh cleaners or Armorall. Use Mopar

威 Total

Clean to clean vinyl upholstery.

WARNING!

Do not use volatile solvents for cleaning purposes.
Many are potentially flammable, and if used in
closed areas they may cause respiratory harm.

Glass Surfaces
All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a regular basis
with Mopar

威 Glass Cleaner or 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 instruments which may scratch the elements.

When cleaning the rear view mirror, spray cleaner on the
towel or rag that you are using. Do not spray cleaner
directly on the mirror.

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Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses
The lenses in front of the instruments in this 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 or 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 Mopar

威 Total Clean, 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.

Carpet
Vacuum your carpet regularly to prevent a soil build-up.
Shampoo soiled carpet with a reliable upholstery cleaner,
using a natural sponge or soft bristle brush. After carpet
dries, vacuum it thoroughly.

WARNING!

Only remove the carpet for cleaning purposes. It
provides insulation against high floor pan tempera-
tures. You or your passengers could be burned if the
carpet is not properly in place. Always put the carpet
back into the vehicle before driving.

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Follow These Steps To Remove The Carpet:

1. Unsnap the front and rear floor carpets. A snap is
located on the outboard side of each front seat.

2. Remove the attachment cap from the front footwell
area on both the driver and passenger side. The cap is
removed by pulling it straight out.

3. Remove the front and rear floor carpets.

4. Remove the cargo floor and wheelhouse carpets.

NOTE:

If your vehicle is equipped with an Add-A-

Trunk™ it must be removed to be able to remove the
cargo floor and wheelhouse carpets. For Add-A-Trunk™
removal procedure, refer to “Storage” in Section 3 of this
manual.

Follow These Steps To Replace The Carpet:

1. Place the front floor carpets in the vehicle.

2. Attach the carpet to the studs in the footwell and press
on the attachment caps to secure the carpet.

3. Place rear floor carpet in vehicle and snap rear carpet
to front floor carpet.

4. Install wheelhouse carpet followed by the cargo floor
carpet.

5. Reinstall Add-A-Trunk™ if so equipped.

Appearance Care For Fabric Top Models

CAUTION!

To maintain the appearance of your vehicle’s interior
trim and top, follow these precautions:

• Avoid leaving your vehicle unattended with the top

down, as exposure to sun or rain may damage interior
trim.

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• Do not use harsh cleaners or bleaching agents on top

material, as damage may result.

• Do not allow any vinyl cleaner to run down and dry

on the paint, leaving a streak.

• After cleaning your vehicle’s fabric top, always make

sure it is completely dry before lowering.

• Be especially careful when washing the windows by

following the directions for “Care of Fabric Top Win-
dows.”

WASHING —

Use Mopar

威 Car Wash or mild soap suds,

lukewarm water, and a brush with soft bristles. If extra
cleaning is required, use Mopar

威 Convertible Cloth Top

Cleaner or a mild foaming cleaner on the entire top, but
support top from underneath.

RINSING —

Be sure to remove all trace of cleaner by

rinsing the top thoroughly with clean water. Remember
to allow the top to dry before lowering it.

Care Of Fabric Top Windows

CAUTION!

Your vehicle’s fabric top has pliable plastic windows
which can be scratched unless special care is taken
by following these directions:

1. Never use a dry cloth to remove dust. Instead, use a
microfiber towel or soft cotton cloth moistened with
cold or warm, clean water, and wipe across the window,
not up and down.

Mopar

威 Jeep Soft Glass Window

Cleaner will safely clean all plastic windows without
scratching. Removes fine scratches to improve visibility
and provide UV protection to help prevent yellowing.

2. When washing, never use hot water or anything
stronger than a mild soap. Never use solvents such as
alcohol or harsh cleaning agents.

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3. Always rinse thoroughly with cold water, then wipe
with a soft and slightly moist, clean cloth.

4. When removing frost, snow or ice, never use a scraper
or de-icing chemicals.

Use warm water only if you must

clean the window quickly.

5. Debris (sand, mud/dirt, dust, or salt) from off-road
driving will have a major impact on zipper operation.
Even normal on-road driving and vehicle washing will
eventually impact window zipper operation. To maintain
ease of use of the window zippers, each window zipper
should be cleaned and lubricated regularly. Use Mopar

威

Soft Top Zipper Cleaner and Lubricant to ease zipper
operation. Before applying, make sure the zipper teeth

are clear of sand, mud, and other materials. Clean both
sides of the zipper, not just one side. Rinse both zipper
halves with fresh water and allow to dry. Aggressively
work the Mopar

威 Soft Top Zipper Cleaner and Lubricant

into the zipper teeth. If a stuck zipper slide is experi-
enced, work the Mopar

威 Soft Top Zipper Cleaner and

Lubricant into the zipper slide. Several applications may
be required before the zipper comes free.

6. Never paste stickers, gummed labels or any tape to the
windows. Adhesives are hard to remove and may dam-
age the windows.

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