Dodge Magnum SRT (2008 year). Manual

6.1L ENGINE COMPARTMENT

1 — Remote Jump-Start Positive Battery Post

6 — Power Steering Fluid

2 — Fuses (Front Power Distribution Center)

7 — Air Cleaner Filter

3 — Coolant Pressure Cap

8 — Engine Oil Fill

4 — Brake Fluid Reservoir Access Cover

9 — Engine Oil Dipstick

5 — Coolant Bottle

10 — Washer Fluid Bottle

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ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II
Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated onboard
diagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitors
the performance of the emissions, engine, and automatic
transmission control systems. When these systems are
operating properly, your vehicle will provide excellent
performance and fuel economy, as well as engine emis-
sions well within current government regulations.

If any of these systems require service, the OBD II system
will turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). It will
also store diagnostic codes and other information to
assist your service technician in making repairs. Al-
though your vehicle will usually be drivable and not
need towing, see your authorized dealer for service as
soon as possible.

CAUTION!

Prolonged driving with the “MIL” on could cause
further damage to the emissions control system. It
could also affect fuel economy and driveability. The
vehicle must be serviced before any emissions tests
can be performed.

If the “MIL” is flashing while the engine is running,
severe catalytic converter damage and power loss
will soon occur. Immediate service is required.

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381

Loose Fuel Filler Cap
If the vehicle diagnostic system determines that the fuel
filler cap is loose, improperly installed, or damaged, a
“Check Gascap” message will display in the Electronic
Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) (if equipped). If this
occurs, tighten the fuel filler cap properly and press the
TRIP ODOMETER button to turn off the message. If the
problem continues, the message will appear the next time
the vehicle is started.

A loose, improperly installed, or damaged fuel filler cap
may also turn on the MIL.

EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
PROGRAMS
In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass
an inspection of your vehicle’s emissions control system.
Failure to pass could prevent vehicle registration.

For states that require an I/M (Inspection and
Maintenance), this check verifies the MIL is func-
tioning and is not on when the engine is running,

and that the OBD II system is ready for testing.

Normally, the OBD system will be ready. The OBD II
system may not be ready if your vehicle was recently
serviced or recently had a dead battery or had a battery
replacement. If the OBD II system should be determined
not ready for the I/M test, your vehicle may fail the test.

Your vehicle has a simple ignition key-actuated test,
which you can use prior to going to the test station. To
check if your vehicle’s OBD II system is ready, you must
do the following:

1. Insert your ignition key into the ignition switch.

2. Turn the ignition to the ON position, but do not crank
or start the engine.

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3. If you crank or start the engine, you will have to start
this test over.

4. As soon as you turn your key to the ON position, you
will see the MIL symbol come on as part of a normal bulb
check.

5. Approximately 15 seconds later, one of two things will
happen:

a. The MIL will flash for about 10 seconds and then
return to being fully illuminated until you turn OFF
the ignition key or start the engine. This means that
your vehicle’s OBD II system is not ready and you
should not proceed to the I/M station.

b. The MIL will not flash at all and will remain fully
illuminated until you turn OFF the ignition key or start
the engine. This means that your vehicle’s OBD II
system is ready , and you can proceed to the I/M
station.

If your OBD II system is not ready, you should see your
authorized dealer or repair facility. If your vehicle was
recently serviced or had a battery failure or replacement,
you may need to do nothing more than drive your
vehicle as you normally would in order for your OBD II
system to update. A recheck with the above test routine
may then indicate that the system is now ready.

Regardless of whether your vehicle’s OBD II system is
ready or not ready, if the MIL is illuminated during
normal vehicle operation, you should have your vehicle
serviced before going to the I/M station. The I/M station
can fail your vehicle because the MIL is on with the
engine running.

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383

REPLACEMENT PARTS
Use of genuine MOPAR

威 parts for normal/scheduled

maintenance and repairs is highly recommended to en-
sure the designed performance. Damage or failures
caused by the use of non-MOPAR

威 parts for maintenance

and repairs will not be covered by the manufacturer’s
warranty.

AUTHORIZED DEALER SERVICE
Your authorized dealer has the qualified service person-
nel, special tools, and equipment to perform all service
operations in an expert manner. Service manuals are
available which include detailed service information for
your vehicle. Refer to these manuals before attempting
any procedure yourself.

NOTE:

Intentional tampering with emissions control

systems can result in civil penalties being assessed
against you.

WARNING!

You can be badly injured working on or around a
motor vehicle. Only do service work for which you
have the knowledge and the proper equipment. If
you have any doubt about your ability to perform a
service job, take your vehicle to a competent
mechanic.

MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
The pages that follow contain the required maintenance
services determined by the engineers who designed your
vehicle.

Besides the maintenance items for which there are fixed
maintenance intervals, there are other items that should
operate satisfactorily without periodic maintenance.
However, if a malfunction of these items does occur, it
could adversely affect the engine or vehicle performance.

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These items should be inspected if a malfunction is
observed or suspected.

Engine Oil

Checking Oil Level
To assure proper engine lubrication, the engine oil must
be maintained at the correct level. Check the oil level at
regular intervals, such as every fuel stop.

The best time to check the engine oil level is about five
minutes after a fully warmed engine is shut off or before
starting the engine after it has sat overnight.

Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level ground will
improve the accuracy of the oil level readings. Maintain
the oil level in the “SAFE” range. Adding 1.0 qt (1.0L) of
oil when the reading is at the bottom of the “SAFE” range
will result in an oil level at the top of the “SAFE” range
on these engines.

CAUTION!

Overfilling or underfilling will cause oil aeration or
loss of oil pressure. This could damage your engine.

Engine Oil Dipstick

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385

Change Engine Oil
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule in Section 8.

NOTE:

Under no circumstances should oil change

intervals exceed 6,000 mi (10 000 km) or six months,
whichever occurs first.

Engine Oil Selection
For best performance and maximum protection under all
types of operating conditions, the manufacturer only
recommends full synthetic engine oils that meet the
American Petroleum Institute (API) categories of SM or
SM/CF, and meet the requirements of DaimlerChrysler
Material Standard MS-10725.

The manufacturer recommends the use of a full synthetic
engine oil, such as Mobil 1

威 SAE 0W-40 or equivalent.

Engine Oil Viscosity (SAE Grade)
SAE 0W-40 engine oil is preferred for use in 6.1L Engines
within the operating temperatures shown in the engine

oil viscosity chart. SAE 5W-40 Engine Oil is also allowed
for use in 6.1L Engines. The proper SAE viscosity grade
of engine oil should be selected based on the following
recommendation and be within the operating tempera-
ture shown in the engine oil viscosity chart.

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The engine oil filler cap also shows the recommended
engine oil viscosity for your engine. For information on
engine oil filler cap location, refer to the “Engine Com-
partment” illustration in this section.

Materials Added to Engine Oil
The manufacturer strongly recommends against the ad-
dition of any additives (other than leak detection dyes) to
the engine oil. Engine oil is an engineered product and its
performance may be impaired by supplemental addi-
tives.

Disposing of Used Engine Oil and Oil Filters
Care should be taken in disposing of used engine oil and
oil filters from your vehicle. Used oil and oil filters,
indiscriminately discarded, can present a problem to the
environment. Contact your authorized dealer, service
station, or governmental agency for advice on how and
where used oil and oil filters can be safely discarded in
your area.

Engine Oil Filter
The engine oil filter should be replaced at every engine
oil change.

Engine Oil Filter Selection
This manufacturer’s engines have a full-flow type oil
filter. Use a filter of this type for replacement. The quality
of replacement filters varies considerably. Only high
quality filters should be used to assure most efficient
service. Mopar

威 Engine Oil Filters are a high quality oil

filter and are recommended.

Drive Belts — Check Condition and Tension
Belt tension is controlled by means of an automatic
tensioner. Therefore, no belt tension adjustments are
required. However, belt and belt tensioner condition
should be inspected periodically and replaced if re-
quired. Improper belt tension can cause belt slippage and
failure. Low generator belt tension can cause battery
failure.

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387

Inspect belts for evidence of cuts, cracks, glazing, or
frayed cords and replace if there is indication of damage
that could result in belt failure. Also, check belt routing to
make sure there is no interference between the belts and
other engine components. See your authorized dealer for
service.

Spark Plugs
Spark plugs must fire properly to assure engine perfor-
mance and emissions control. New plugs should be
installed at the specified mileage. The entire set should be
replaced if there is any malfunction due to a faulty spark
plug. Malfunctioning spark plugs can damage the cata-
lytic converter. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
Parts” in this section for the proper type of spark plug for
use in your vehicle.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule in Section 8 for engine
air cleaner filter maintenance intervals.

NOTE:

Be sure to follow the “dusty or off-road condi-

tions” maintenance interval if applicable.

WARNING!

The air induction system (air cleaner, hoses, etc) can
provide a measure of protection in the case of engine
backfire. Do not remove the air induction system (air
cleaner, hoses, etc) unless such removal is necessary
for repair or maintenance. Make sure that no one is
near the engine compartment before starting the
vehicle with the air induction system (air cleaner,
hoses, etc) removed. Failure to do so can result in
serious personal injury.

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Fuel Filter
A plugged fuel filter can cause stalling, limit the speed at
which a vehicle can be driven or cause hard starting.
Should an excessive amount of dirt accumulate in the
fuel tank, filter replacement may be necessary. See your
authorized dealer for service.

Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter requires the use of unleaded fuel
only. Leaded gasoline will destroy the effectiveness of the
catalyst as an emissions control device.

Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic con-
verter will not require maintenance. However, it is im-
portant to keep the engine properly tuned to assure
proper catalyst operation and prevent possible catalyst
damage.

CAUTION!

Damage to the catalytic converter can result if your
vehicle is not kept in proper operating condition. In
the event of engine malfunction, particularly involv-
ing engine misfire or other apparent loss of perfor-
mance, have your vehicle serviced promptly. Contin-
ued operation of your vehicle with a severe
malfunction could cause the converter to overheat,
resulting in possible damage to the converter and the
vehicle.

NOTE:

Intentional tampering with emissions control

systems can result in civil penalties being assessed
against you.

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389

WARNING!

A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you park over
materials that can burn. Such materials might be
grass or leaves coming into contact with your exhaust
system. Do not park or operate your vehicle in areas
where your exhaust system can contact anything that
can burn.

In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning
engine operation, a scorching odor may indicate severe
and abnormal catalyst overheating. If this should occur,
safely bring the vehicle to a complete stop, shut the
engine OFF, and allow the vehicle to cool. Thereafter,
obtain service, including a tune-up to manufacturer’s
specifications immediately.

To minimize the possibility of catalyst damage:

• Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the ignition

when the transmission is in gear and the vehicle is in
motion.

• Do not try to start the engine by pushing or towing the

vehicle.

• Do not idle the engine with any spark plug wires

disconnected or removed, such as when diagnostic
testing, or for prolonged periods during very rough
idling or malfunctioning operating conditions.

Maintenance-Free Battery
The top of the maintenance-free battery is permanently
sealed. You will never have to add water, nor is periodic
maintenance required.

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NOTE:

The battery is stored under a hinged access

cover in the load floor in the cargo area. Remote battery
terminals are located in the engine compartment for
jump-starting.

WARNING!

• Battery fluid is a corrosive acid solution and can burn

or even blind you. Don’t allow battery fluid to contact
your eyes, skin, or clothing. Don’t lean over a battery
when attaching clamps. If acid splashes in eyes or on
skin, flush the area immediately with large amounts
of water.

• Battery gas is flammable and explosive. Keep flame

or sparks away from the battery. Don’t use a booster
battery or any other booster source with an output
greater than 12 Volts. Don’t allow cable clamps to
touch each other.

• Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories con-

tain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.

• The battery in this vehicle has a vent hose that should

not be disconnected and should only be replaced with
a battery of the same type (vented).

Battery Location

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391

CAUTION!

• It is essential when replacing the cables on the

battery that the positive cable is attached to the
positive post and the negative cable is attached to
the negative post. Battery posts are marked posi-
tive (+) and negative (-) and identified on the
battery case. Cable clamps should be tight on the
terminal posts and free of corrosion.

• If a “fast charger” is used while the battery is in

the vehicle, disconnect both vehicle battery cables
before connecting the charger to the battery. Do
not use a “fast charger” to provide starting voltage.

Air Conditioner Maintenance
For best possible performance, your air conditioner
should be checked and serviced by an authorized dealer
at the start of each warm season. This service should
include cleaning of the condenser fins and a performance
test. Drive belt tension should also be checked at this
time.

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WARNING!

• Use only refrigerants and compressor lubricants

approved by the manufacturer for your air condi-
tioning system. Some unapproved refrigerants are
flammable and can explode, injuring you. Other
unapproved refrigerants or lubricants can cause
the system to fail, requiring costly repairs. Refer to
Section 3 of the Warranty Information book for
further warranty information.

• The air conditioning system contains refrigerant

under high pressure. To avoid risk of personal
injury or damage to the system, adding refrigerant
or any repair requiring lines to be disconnected
should be done by an experienced technician.

Refrigerant Recovery and Recycling
R-134a Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydrofluorocar-
bon (HFC) that is endorsed by the Environmental Pro-
tection Agency and is an ozone-saving product. How-
ever, the manufacturer recommends that air conditioning
service be performed by authorized dealers or other
service facilities using recovery and recycling equipment.

NOTE:

Use only manufacturer approved A/C system

sealers, stop leak products, seal conditioners, compressor
oil, and refrigerants.

A/C Air Filter — If Equipped
The filter is located in the fresh air inlet under the hood,
behind a removable panel in the cowl on the passenger
side of the vehicle, next to the windshield wipers. When
installing a new filter, ensure its proper orientation. To
replace the filter, remove the access door in the cowl
screen by pressing the retaining clips. Slide the lid on the
filter adapter forward and down and remove the used

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393

filter. Install the new filter with arrows pointing in the
direction of airflow, which is toward the rear of the
vehicle (text and arrows on the filter indicate this).

Refer to the Maintenance Schedule in Section 8 for the
recommended air conditioning filter replacement inter-
vals.

Power Steering — Fluid Check
Checking the power steering fluid level at a defined
service interval is not required. The fluid should only be
checked if a leak is suspected, abnormal noises are
apparent, and/or the system is not functioning as antici-
pated. Coordinate inspection efforts through an autho-
rized dealer. No chemical flushes should be used in any
power steering system; only the approved lubricant may
be used.

WARNING!

Fluid level should be checked on a level surface and
with the engine OFF to prevent injury from moving
parts and to ensure accurate fluid level reading. Do
not overfill. Use only manufacturer’s recommended
power steering fluid.

If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper indicated
level. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from all
surfaces. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
Parts” in this section for the correct fluid type.

Front and Rear Suspension Ball Joints
The suspension ball joints should be inspected for exter-
nal leakage or damage when other maintenance is per-
formed.

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Steering Linkage
The tie rod end ball joints should be inspected for
external leakage or damage when other maintenance is
performed.

Body Lubrication
Locks and all body pivot points, including seat tracks,
door hinges, liftgate hinges, and hood hinges, should be
lubricated periodically to assure quiet, easy operation
and to protect against rust and wear. Prior to the appli-
cation of any lubricant, the parts concerned should be
wiped clean to remove dust and grit; after lubricating,
excess oil and grease should be removed. Particular
attention should also be given to hood latching compo-
nents to ensure proper function. When performing other
underhood services, the hood latch, release mechanism,
and safety catch should be cleaned and lubricated.

The external lock cylinders should be lubricated twice a
year, preferably in the Fall and Spring. Apply a small

amount of a high quality lubricant such as Mopar

威 Lock

Cylinder Lubricant or equivalent directly into the lock
cylinder.

Wiper Blades
Clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades and the
windshield and rear window periodically with a sponge
or soft cloth and a mild nonabrasive cleaner. This will
remove accumulations of salt or road film.

Operation of the wipers on dry glass for long periods
may cause deterioration of the wiper blades. Always use
washer fluid when using the wipers to remove salt or dirt
from a dry windshield or rear window.

Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or ice from
the windshield or rear window. Keep the blade rubber
out of contact with petroleum products such as engine
oil, gasoline, etc.

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Dodge Magnum SRT (2008 year). Manual - part 24