Dodge Caravan (2008 year). Manual

to the ABS system is required. Consult with your autho-
rized dealer service center as soon as possible.

ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced electronic
brake control system that includes TCS (Traction Control
System), BAS (Brake Assist System) and ESP (Electronic
Stability Program). These systems complement the Anti-
Lock Brake System (ABS) by optimizing the vehicle
braking capability during emergency braking maneu-
vers.

Traction Control System (TCS)

This system monitors the amount of wheel spin of each of
the driven wheels. If wheel spin is detected, brake
pressure is applied to the slipping wheel(s) and engine
power is reduced to provide enhanced acceleration and
stability. A feature of the TCS system functions similar to
a limited slip differential and controls the wheel spin
across a driven axle. If one wheel on a driven axle is

spinning faster than the other, the system will apply the
brake of the spinning wheel. This will allow more engine
torque to be applied to the wheel that is not spinning.
This feature remains active even if the ESP is in the
“Partial Off” mode.

The Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator
Light, located in the instrument cluster, starts
to flash as soon as the tires lose traction and the
wheels begin to spin. This indicates that the

TCS is active. If the indicator light flashes during accel-
eration, ease up on the accelerator and apply as little
throttle as possible. Be sure to adapt your speed and
driving to the prevailing road conditions, and do not
switch off the ESP or TCS.

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WARNING!

• The TCS cannot prevent the natural laws of phys-

ics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase
the traction afforded.

• The TCS cannot prevent accidents, including those

resulting from excessive speed in turns, or hydro-
planing. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver
can prevent accidents.

• The capabilities of a TCS-equipped vehicle must

never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner, which could jeopardize the user’s safety
or the safety of others.

Brake Assist System (BAS)
The BAS is designed to optimize the vehicle’s braking
capability during emergency braking maneuvers. The
system detects an emergency braking situation by sens-
ing the rate and amount of brake application and then
applies optimum pressure to the brakes. This can help
reduce braking distances. The BAS complements the
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS). Applying the brakes very
quickly results in the best BAS assistance. To receive the
benefit of the system, you must apply continuous brak-
ing pressure during the stopping sequence. Do not
reduce brake pedal pressure unless braking is no longer
desired. Once the brake pedal is released, the BAS is
deactivated.

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WARNING!

• BAS (Brake Assist System) cannot prevent the

natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle,
nor can it increase the traction afforded by prevail-
ing road conditions.

• BAS cannot prevent accidents, including those

resulting from excessive speed in turns, driving on
very slippery surfaces, or hydroplaning. Only a
safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent
accidents.

• The capabilities of a BAS-equipped vehicle must

never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner which could jeopardize the user’s safety
or the safety of others.

Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
This system enhances directional control and stability of
the vehicle under various driving conditions. ESP cor-
rects for over/under steering of the vehicle by applying
the brake of the appropriate wheel to assist in counter-
acting the over/under steer condition. Engine power
may also be reduced to help the vehicle maintain the
desired path.

ESP uses sensors in the vehicle to determine the vehicle
path intended by the driver and compares it to the actual
path of the vehicle. When the actual path does not match
the intended path, ESP applies the brake of the appropri-
ate wheel to assist in counteracting the oversteer or
understeer condition.

• Oversteer - when the vehicle is turning more than

appropriate for the steering wheel position.

• Understeer - when the vehicle is turning less than

appropriate for the steering wheel position.

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ESP ON
This is the normal operating mode for ESP on 2WD
vehicles. Whenever the vehicle is started, the ESP system
will be in this mode. This mode should be used for most
driving situations. ESP should only be turned off for
specific reasons as noted below.

ESP Partial OFF
This mode is entered by momentarily depressing the ESP
OFF switch (located in the center switch bank, next to the
hazard flasher switch).

When in Partial OFF mode, the TCS portion of
ESP, except for the “limited slip” feature de-
scribed in the TCS section, has been disabled
and the ESP/TCS Indicator Light will be illu-

minated. All other stability features of the ESP function
normally. This mode is intended to be used if the vehicle
is in deep snow, sand or gravel conditions and more
wheel spin than ESP would normally allow is required to

gain traction. To turn ESP on again, momentarily depress
the ESP OFF switch. This will restore the normal ESP ON
mode of operation.

NOTE:

To improve the vehicle’s traction when driving

with snow chains, or starting off in deep snow, sand or
gravel, it may be desirable to switch to the Partial OFF
mode by pressing the ESP OFF switch. Once the situation
requiring ESP to be switched to the Partial OFF mode is
overcome, turn ESP back on by momentarily depressing
the ESP OFF switch. This may be done while the vehicle
is in motion.

ESP/BAS Warning Light

The malfunction indicator light for the ESP is
combined with BAS. The ESP/BAS Warning
light and the ESP/TCS Indicator Light in the
instrument cluster both come on when the

ignition switch is turned to the ON position. They should
go out with the engine running. If the ESP/BAS Warning

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Light comes on continuously with the engine running, a
malfunction has been detected in either the ESP or the
BAS system. If this light remains on after several ignition
cycles, and the vehicle has been driven several miles/
kilometers at speeds greater than 30 mph (48 km/h), see
your authorized dealer as soon as possible to have the
problem diagnosed and corrected.

NOTE:

• The ESP/TCS Indicator Light and the ESP/BAS Warn-

ing Light come on momentarily each time the ignition
switch is turned ON.

• Each time the ignition is turned ON, the ESP System

will be ON even if it was turned off previously.

• The ESP Control System will make buzzing or clicking

sounds when it is active, this is normal. The sounds
will stop when ESP becomes inactive following the
maneuver that caused the ESP activation.

POWER STEERING

The standard power steering system will give you good
vehicle response and increased ease of maneuverability
in tight spaces. The system will provide mechanical
steering capability if power assist is lost.

If for some reason the power assist is interrupted, it will
still be possible to steer your vehicle. Under these condi-
tions, you will observe a substantial increase in steering
effort, especially at very low vehicle speeds and during
parking maneuvers.

NOTE:

Increased noise levels at the end of the steering

wheel travel are considered normal and do not indicate
that there is a problem with the power steering system.

Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the power steering
pump may make noise for a short amount of time. This is
due to the cold, thick fluid in the steering system. This
noise should be considered normal, and it does not in any
way damage the steering system.

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WARNING!

Continued operation with reduced power steering
assist could pose a safety risk to yourself and others.
Service should be obtained as soon as possible.

CAUTION!

Prolonged operation of the steering system at the end
of the steering wheel travel will increase the steering
fluid temperature and it should be avoided when
possible. Damage to the power steering pump may
occur.

DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES

ACCELERATION

Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other slip-
pery surfaces may cause the front wheels to pull errati-
cally to the right or left. This phenomenon occurs when
there is a difference in the surface traction under the front
(driving) wheels.

WARNING!

Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is dangerous.
Unequal traction can cause sudden pulling of the
front wheels. You could lose control of the vehicle
and possibly have an accident. Accelerate slowly and
carefully whenever there is likely to be poor traction
(ice, snow, wet mud, loose sand, etc.).

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TRACTION

When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is possible for a
wedge of water to build up between the tire and road
surface. This is known as hydroplaning and may cause
partial or complete loss of vehicle control and stopping
ability. To reduce this possibility, the following precau-
tions should be observed:

1. Slow down during rainstorms or when roads are
slushy.

2. Slow down if the road has standing water or puddles.

3. Replace the tires when tread wear indicators first
become visible.

4. Keep the tires properly inflated.

5. Maintain sufficient distance between your vehicle and
the vehicle in front of you to avoid a collision in a sudden
stop.

DRIVING THROUGH WATER

Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to ensure
safety and prevent damage to your vehicle.

Flowing/Rising Water

WARNING!

Do not drive on, or cross, a road or a path where
water is flowing and/or rising (as in storm run-off).
Flowing water can wear away the road or path’s
surface and cause your vehicle to sink into deeper
water. Furthermore, flowing and/or rising water can
carry your vehicle away swiftly. Failure to follow this
warning may result in injuries that are serious or
fatal to you, your passengers, and others around you.

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Shallow Standing Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through
shallow standing water, consider the following Caution
and Warning before doing so.

CAUTION!

• Always check the depth of the standing water

before driving through it. Never drive through
standing water that is deeper than the bottom of
the tire rims mounted on the vehicle.

• Determine the condition of the road or the path

that is under water, and if there are any obstacles
in the way, before driving through the standing
water.

• Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h) when driving

through standing water. This will minimize wave
effects.

CAUTION!

• Driving through standing water may cause dam-

age to your vehicle’s drivetrain components. Al-
ways inspect your vehicle’s fluids (i.e., engine oil,
transmission, axle, etc.) for signs of contamination
(i.e., fluid that is milky or foamy in appearance)
after driving through standing water. Do not con-
tinue to operate the vehicle if any fluid appears
contaminated, as this may result in further dam-
age. Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.

• Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can

cause it to lock up and stall out, and cause serious
internal damage to the engine. Such damage is not
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

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WARNING!

• Driving through standing water limits your vehi-

cle’s traction capabilities. Do not exceed 5 mph (8
km/h) when driving through standing water.

• Driving through standing water limits your vehi-

cle’s braking capabilities, which increases stop-
ping distances. Therefore, after driving through
standing water, drive slowly and lightly press on
the brake pedal several times to dry the brakes.

• Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can

cause it to lock up and stall out, and leave you
stranded.

• Failure to follow these warnings may result in

injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your
passengers, and others around you.

TIRE SAFETY INFORMATION

Tire Markings

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NOTE:

• P (Passenger) - Metric tire sizing is based on U.S.

design standards. P-Metric tires have the letter “P”
molded into the sidewall preceding the size designa-
tion. Example: P215/65R15 95H.

• European-Metric tire sizing is based on European

design standards. Tires designed to this standard have
the tire size molded into the sidewall beginning with
the section width. The letter

9P9 is absent from this tire

size designation. Example: 215/65R15 96H.

• LT (Light Truck) - Metric tire sizing is based on U.S.

design standards. The size designation for LT-Metric
tires is the same as for P-Metric tires except for the
letters “LT” that are molded into the sidewall preced-
ing the size designation. Example: LT235/85R16.

• Temporary spare tires are high-pressure compact

spares designed for temporary emergency use only.
Tires designed to this standard have the letter “T”
molded into the sidewall preceding the size designa-
tion. Example: T145/80D18 103M.

• High flotation tire sizing is based on U.S. design

standards, and it begins with the tire diameter molded
into the sidewall. Example: 31x10.5 R15 LT.

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Tire Sizing Chart

Passenger Car tire size based on U.S. design standards

(....blank....( Passenger Car tire based on European design standards
LT

Light Truck tire based on U.S. design standards

Temporary spare tire

Overall diameter in inches (in)

215

Section width in millimeters (mm)

Aspect Ratio of section height to section width of tire, written in percent (%)

10.5

Section width in inches (in)

9R9 means radial construction
9D9 means diagonal or bias construction

Rim diameter in inches (in)

Load Index (a numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can carry)

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Tire Sizing Chart

A symbol indicating the range of speeds at which a tire can carry a load corresponding to its load
index under certain operating conditions

The maximum speed corresponding to the speed symbol should only be achieved under specified
operating conditions (i.e., tire pressure, vehicle loading, road conditions, and posted speed limits)

(....blank....( • Absence of any text on the sidewall of the tire indicates a Standard Load (SL) Tire

• Extra Load (XL) = Extra load (or reinforced) tire
• Light Load = Light load tire
• C, D, E = Load range associated with the maximum load a tire can carry at a specified pressure

Maximum
Load

Maximum load indicates the maximum load this tire is designed to carry

Maximum
Pressure

Maximum pressure indicates the maximum permissible cold tire inflation pressure for this tire

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Tire Identification Number (TIN)
The TIN may be found on one or both sides of the tire,
however, the date code may only be on one side. Tires
with white sidewalls will have the full TIN, including the
date code, located on the white sidewall side of the tire.

Look for the TIN on the outboard side of black sidewall
tires as mounted on the vehicle. If the TIN is not found on
the outboard side, then you will find it on the inboard
side of the tire.

Tire Identification Number

EXAMPLE: DOT MA L9 ABCD 0301
DOT

Department of Transportation — This symbol certifies that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. De-
partment of Transportation tire safety standards, and is approved for highway use

Code representing the tire manufacturing location (two digits)

Code representing the tire size (two digits)

ABCD

Code used by the tire manufacturer (one to four digits)

Two digit number representing the week in which the tire was manufactured (03 means the 3rd week)

Two digit number representing the year in which the tire was manufactured (01 means the year 2001)

Prior to July 2000, tire manufacturers were only required to have one number to represent the year in which the tire

was manufactured. Example: 031 could represent the 3rd week of 1981 or 1991

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Tire Loading and Tire Pressure

Tire Placard Location

NOTE:

The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed

on either the face of the driver’s door or the driver’s side
B-Pillar.

Tire and Loading Information Placard

This placard tells you important information about the:
1) number of people that can be carried in the vehicle
2) total weight your vehicle can carry
3) tire size designed for your vehicle
4) cold tire inflation pressures for the front, rear, and
spare tires.

Tire Placard Location

Tire and Loading Information Placard

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Loading
The vehicle maximum load on the tire must not exceed
the load carrying capacity of the tire on your vehicle. You
will not exceed the tire’s load carrying capacity if you
adhere to the loading conditions, tire size, and cold tire
inflation pressures specified on the Tire and Loading
Information placard and in the “Vehicle Loading” section
of this manual.

NOTE:

Under a maximum loaded vehicle condition,

gross axle weight ratings (GAWRs) for the front and rear
axles must not be exceeded. For further information on
GAWRs, vehicle loading, and trailer towing, refer to
“Vehicle Loading” in this section.

To determine the maximum loading conditions of your
vehicle, locate the statement, “The combined weight of
occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX
lbs.” on the Tire and Loading Information placard. The

combined weight of occupants, cargo/luggage and
trailer tongue weight (if applicable) should never exceed
the weight referenced here.

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit

1. Locate the statement, “The combined weight of occu-
pants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs”
on your vehicle’s placard.

2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and
passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and pas-
sengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of
cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if “XXX”
amount equals 1,400 lbs (635 kg) and there will be five
each 150 lb (68 kg) passengers in your vehicle, the

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amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is
650 lbs (295 kg) (since 5 x 150 = 750, and 1400 – 750 = 650
lbs [295 kg]).

5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo
being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely
exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity
calculated in Step 4.

6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your
trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this
manual to determine how this reduces the available
cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.

NOTE:

The following table shows examples on how to

calculate total load, cargo/luggage, and towing capaci-
ties of your vehicle with varying seating configurations
and number and size of occupants. This table is for
illustration purposes only and may not be accurate for
the seating and load carrying capacity of your vehicle.

NOTE:

For the following example, the combined weight

of occupants and cargo should never exceed 865 lbs (392
kg).

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Dodge Caravan (2008 year). Manual - part 22