Chrysler 300 SRT (2014 year). Instruction — part 32

WARNING! (Continued)

• To avoid contamination from foreign matter or

moisture, use only new brake fluid or fluid that has
been in a tightly closed container. Keep the master
cylinder reservoir cap secured at all times. Brake
fluid in a open container absorbs moisture from the
air resulting in a lower boiling point. This may
cause it to boil unexpectedly during hard or pro-
longed braking, resulting in sudden brake failure.
This could result in a collision.

• Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in

spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts, causing
the brake fluid to catch fire. Brake fluid can also
damage painted and vinyl surfaces, care should be
taken to avoid its contact with these surfaces.

(Continued)

WARNING! (Continued)

• Do not allow petroleum based fluid to contaminate

the brake fluid. Brake seal components could be
damaged, causing partial or complete brake failure.
This could result in a collision.

Use only brake fluid that has been in a tightly closed
container to avoid contamination from foreign matter or
moisture.

Automatic Transmission

Selection Of Lubricant

It is important to use the proper transmission fluid to
ensure optimum transmission performance and life. Use
only the manufacturer’s specified transmission fluid.
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in this
section for fluid specifications. It is important to maintain
the transmission fluid at the correct level using the

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

recommended fluid. No chemical flushes should be used
in any transmission; only the approved lubricant should
be used.

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, and will require more frequent fluid and
filter changes. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and
Genuine Parts” in this section for fluid specifica-
tions.

Special Additives

The manufacturer strongly recommends against using
any special additives in the transmission.

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered
product and its performance may be impaired by supple-
mental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid addi-
tives to the transmission. The only exception to this
policy is the use of special dyes for diagnosing fluid
leaks. Avoid using transmission sealers as they may
adversely affect seals.

CAUTION!

Do not use chemical flushes in your transmission as
the chemicals can damage your transmission compo-
nents. Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Fluid Level Check

The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not
require adjustment under normal operating conditions.
Routine fluid level checks are not required, therefore the

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

509

transmission filler tube is capped and no dipstick is
provided. Your authorized dealer can check your trans-
mission fluid level using a special service dipstick.

If you notice fluid leakage or transmission malfunction,
visit your authorized dealer immediately to have the
transmission fluid level checked. Operating the vehicle
with an improper fluid level can cause severe transmis-
sion damage.

CAUTION!

If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit your autho-
rized dealer immediately. Severe transmission dam-
age may occur. Your authorized dealer has the proper
tools to adjust the fluid level accurately.

Fluid And Filter Changes

Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper
maintenance intervals.

In addition, change the fluid and filter if the fluid
becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the trans-
mission is disassembled for any reason.

Rear Axle

For normal service, periodic fluid level checks are not
required. When the vehicle is serviced for other reasons
the exterior surfaces of the axle assembly should be
inspected. If gear oil leakage is suspected inspect the
fluid level. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
Parts” in “Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further informa-
tion.

Fluid Level Check

Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug on the
axle. The fluid level should be at the bottom of the fill
hole. Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper level.
Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in
“Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further information.

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Change Axle Fluid

Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper
maintenance intervals.

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 chemicals that are sprayed
on trees and road surfaces during other seasons, are
highly corrosive to the metal in your vehicle. Outside
parking, which exposes your vehicle to airborne contami-
nants, road surfaces on which the vehicle is operated,
extreme hot or cold weather and other extreme condi-
tions will have an adverse effect on paint, metal trim, and
underbody 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 seacoast localities.
• Atmospheric fallout/industrial pollutants.

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511

Washing
• Wash your vehicle regularly. Always wash your ve-

hicle in the shade using MOPAR® 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® Super Kleen Bug
and Tar Remover to remove.

• Use a high quality cleaner wax, such as MOPAR®

Cleaner Wax to remove road film, stains and to protect
your paint finish. Take care never to scratch the paint.

• 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 that will
scratch metal and painted surfaces.

• Use of power washers exceeding 1,200 psi (8 274 kPa)

can result in damage or removal of paint and decals.

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 trunk 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.

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

• If your vehicle is damaged due to a collision or similar

cause that destroys the paint and protective coating,
have your vehicle repaired as soon as possible. The
cost of such repairs is considered the responsibility of
the owner.

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

de-icer salt, etc., be sure 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® Touch Up Paint on scratches as soon as

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

Wheel And Wheel Trim Care

• All wheels and wheel trim, especially aluminum and

chrome plated wheels, should be cleaned regularly
with a mild soap and water to prevent corrosion.

• To remove heavy soil and/or excessive brake dust, use

MOPAR® Wheel Cleaner or equivalent or select a
non-abrasive, non-acidic cleaner.

CAUTION!

Do not use scouring pads, steel wool, a bristle brush,
or metal polishes. Do not use oven cleaner. These
products may damage the wheel’s protective finish.
Avoid automatic car washes that use acidic solutions
or harsh brushes that may damage the wheel’s pro-
tective finish. Only MOPAR® Wheel Cleaner or
equivalent is recommended.

NOTE:

If your vehicle is equipped with Dark Vapor

Chrome wheels DO NOT USE wheel cleaners, abrasives
or polishing compounds. They will permanently damage
this finish and such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty. USE ONLY MILD SOAP AND
WATER WITH A SOFT CLOTH. Used on a regular basis
this is all that is required to maintain this finish.

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

513

Stain Repel Fabric Cleaning Procedure — If
Equipped

Stain Repel seats may be cleaned in the following man-
ner:

• Remove as much of the stain as possible by blotting

with a clean, dry towel.

• Blot any remaining stain with a clean, damp towel.
• For tough stains, apply MOPAR® Total Clean, or a

mild soap solution to a clean, damp cloth and remove
stain. Use a fresh, damp towel to remove soap residue.

• For grease stains, apply MOPAR® Multi-Purpose

Cleaner to a clean, damp cloth and remove stain. Use
a fresh, damp towel to remove soap residue.

• Do not use any harsh solvents or any other form of

protectants on Stain Repel products.

Interior Care

Use MOPAR® Total Clean to clean fabric upholstery and
carpeting.

Use MOPAR® Total Clean to clean vinyl upholstery.

MOPAR® Total Clean is specifically recommended for
leather upholstery.

Your leather upholstery can be best preserved by regular
cleaning with a damp soft cloth. Small particles of dirt can
act as an abrasive and damage the leather upholstery and
should be removed promptly with a damp cloth. Stubborn
soils can be removed easily with a soft cloth and MOPAR®
Total Clean. Care should be taken to avoid soaking your
leather upholstery with any liquid. Please do not use
polishes, oils, cleaning fluids, solvents, detergents, or
ammonia-based cleaners to clean your leather upholstery.
Application of a leather conditioner is not required to
maintain the original condition.

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

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

CAUTION!

Do not use Alcohol and Alcohol-based and/or Keton
based cleaning products to clean leather seats, as
damage to the seat may result.

Cleaning Headlights

Your vehicle is equipped with plastic headlights and fog
lights that are lighter and less susceptible to stone break-
age than glass headlights.

Plastic is not as scratch resistant as glass and therefore
different lens cleaning procedures must be followed.

To minimize the possibility of scratching the lenses and
reducing light output, avoid wiping with a dry cloth. To
remove road dirt, wash with a mild soap solution fol-
lowed by rinsing.

Do not use abrasive cleaning components, solvents, steel
wool or other aggressive material to clean the lenses.

Glass Surfaces

All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a regular basis
with MOPAR® Glass Cleaner, or any commercial
household-type glass cleaner. Never use an abrasive type
cleaner. Use caution when cleaning the inside rear win-
dow equipped with electric defrosters or the right rear
quarter window equipped with the radio antenna. Do
not use scrapers or other sharp instrument that 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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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

515

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 cloth.

Seat Belt Maintenance

Do not bleach, dye, or clean the belts with chemical
solvents or abrasive cleaners. This will weaken the fabric.
Sun damage can also weaken the fabric.

If the belts need cleaning, use MOPAR® Total Clean, a mild
soap solution, or lukewarm water. Do not remove the belts
from the vehicle to wash them. Dry with a soft cloth.

Replace the belts if they appear frayed or worn or if the
buckles do not work properly.

WARNING!

A frayed or torn belt could rip apart in a collision and
leave you with no protection. Inspect the belt system
periodically, checking for cuts, frays, or loose parts.
Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. Do
not disassemble or modify the system. Seat belt
assemblies must be replaced after a collision if they
have been damaged (i.e., bent retractor, torn web-
bing, etc.).

Cleaning The Center Console Cupholders

Clean with a damp cloth or towel using a mild detergent
with the cupholder in the center console.

NOTE:

The cupholder cannot be removed.

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

FUSES

WARNING!

• When replacing a blown fuse, always use an appro-

priate replacement fuse with the same amp rating as
the original fuse. Never replace a fuse with another
fuse of higher amp rating. Never replace a blown
fuse with metal wires or any other material. Failure
to use proper fuses may result in serious personal
injury, fire and/or property damage.

• Before replacing a fuse, make sure that the ignition

is off and that all the other services are switched off
and/or disengaged.

• If the replaced fuse blows again, contact an autho-

rized dealer.

(Continued)

WARNING! (Continued)

• If a general protection fuse for safety systems (air

bag system, braking system), power unit systems
(engine system, gearbox system) or steering system
blows, contact an authorized dealer.

Front Power Distribution Center (Fuses)

The Front Power Distribution Center is located in the
engine compartment. This module contains fuses and
relays.

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

517

CAUTION!

• When installing the power distribution center

cover, it is important to ensure the cover is properly
positioned and fully latched. Failure to do so may
allow water to get into the power distribution
center and possibly result in an electrical system
failure.

• When replacing a blown fuse, it is important to use

only a fuse having the correct amperage rating. The
use of a fuse with a rating other than indicated may
result in a dangerous electrical system overload. If
a properly rated fuse continues to blow, it indicates
a problem in the circuit that must be corrected.

Cavity

Cartridge Fuse

Mini-Fuse

Description

1

–

–

Fuse – Spare

2

40 Amp Green

–

Radiator Fan #1

Front Power Distribution Center

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Cavity

Cartridge Fuse

Mini-Fuse

Description

3

50 Amp Red

–

Power Steering #1

4

30 Amp Pink

–

Starter

5

40 Amp Green

–

Anti-Lock Brakes

6

25 Amp Natural

–

Anti-Lock Brakes

7

–

–

Fuse – Spare

8

–

–

Fuse – Spare

9

–

20 Amp Yellow

All-Wheel Drive Module – If Equipped

10

–

5 Amp Tan

Security

11

–

20 Amp Yellow

Horns

12

–

10 Amp Red

Air Conditioning Clutch

13

–

–

Fuse – Spare

14

–

–

Fuse – Spare

15

–

–

Fuse – Spare

16

–

–

Fuse – Spare

18

50 Amp Red

–

Radiator Fan #2

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

519

Cavity

Cartridge Fuse

Mini-Fuse

Description

19

50 Amp Red

–

Power Steering #2

20

30 Amp Pink

–

Wiper Motor

21

30 Amp Pink

–

Headlamp Washers

22

–

–

Fuse – Spare

23

–

–

Fuse – Spare

24

–

–

Fuse – Spare

28

–

25 Amp Natural

Fuel Pump

29

–

15 Amp Blue

Transmission Shifter

30

–

–

Fuse – Spare

31

–

25 Amp Natural

Engine Module

32

–

–

Fuse – Spare

33

–

–

Fuse – Spare

34

–

25 Amp Natural

Powertrain #1

35

–

20 Amp Yellow

Powertrain #2

36

–

10 Amp Red

Anti-Lock Brake Module

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Cavity

Cartridge Fuse

Mini-Fuse

Description

37

–

10 Amp Red

Engine Controller/Rad Fan Relays

38

–

10 Amp Red

Airbag Module

39

–

10 Amp Red

Power Steering Module/AC Clutch Relay

48

–

10 Amp Red

AWD Module/Front Axle Disconnect

49

–

–

Fuse – Spare

50

–

–

Fuse – Spare

51

–

20 Amp Yellow

Vacuum Pump

52

–

–

Fuse – Spare

53

–

–

Fuse – Spare

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

521

Rear Power Distribution Center (Fuses)

There is also a power distribution center located in the
trunk under the spare tire access panel. This center
contains fuses and relays.

CAUTION!

• When installing the power distribution center

cover, it is important to ensure the cover is properly
positioned and fully latched. Failure to do so may
allow water to get into the power distribution
center and possibly result in an electrical system
failure.

• When replacing a blown fuse, it is important to use

only a fuse having the correct amperage rating. The
use of a fuse with a rating other than indicated may
result in a dangerous electrical system overload. If
a properly rated fuse continues to blow, it indicates
a problem in the circuit that must be corrected.

Rear Power Distribution Center

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MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Cavity

Cartridge Fuse

Mini-Fuse

Description

2

60 Amp Yellow

–

Front PDC Feed #1

3

–

–

Fuse – Spare

4

60 Amp Yellow

–

Front PDC Feed #2

5

30 Amp Pink

–

Sunroof

6

40 Amp Green

–

Exterior Lighting #1

7

40 Amp Green

–

Exterior Lighting #2

8

30 Amp Pink

–

Interior Lighting/Washer Pump

9

30 Amp Pink

–

Power Locks

10

30 Amp Pink

–

Driver Door

11

30 Amp Pink

–

Passenger Door

12

–

20 Amp Yellow

Cigar Lighters, Instrument Panel & Power Outlet Con-
sole Rear

15

40 Amp Green

–

HVAC Blower

16

–

–

Fuse – Spare

17

–

–

Fuse – Spare

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523