Dodge Grand Caravan (2020 year). Manual in english

232

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Checking Oil Level

To ensure 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.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level

ground will improve the accuracy of the oil level

readings. Maintain the oil level within the SAFE

crosshatch marking on the dipstick. Adding one

quart of oil when the reading is at the bottom of

the mark will result in reading the top of the

mark on these engines.

Adding Washer Fluid

The fluid reservoir for the windshield washers

and the rear window washer is shared. It is

located in the engine compartment and should

be checked at regular intervals.

Fill the reservoir with windshield washer solvent

(not radiator antifreeze) and operate the system

for a few seconds to flush out any residual

water.
The washer fluid reservoir will hold a full gallon

of fluid when the Low Washer Fluid Light

illuminates.

After the engine has warmed, operate the

defroster for a few minutes to reduce the

possibility of smearing or freezing the fluid on

the cold windshield. Mopar All Weather

Windshield Washer Solution or equivalent, used

with water as directed on the container, aids

cleaning action, reduces the freezing point to

avoid line clogging, and is not harmful to paint

or trim.

Maintenance-Free Battery

Your vehicle is equipped with a

maintenance-free battery. You will never have

to add water, nor is periodic maintenance

required.

CAUTION!

Overfilling or underfilling will cause oil

aeration, or loss of oil pressure. This could

damage your engine.

WARNING!

Commercially available windshield washer

solvents are flammable. They could ignite and

burn you. Care must be exercised when filling

or working around the washer solution.

WARNING!



Battery fluid is a corrosive acid solution and

can burn or even blind you. Do not allow

battery fluid to contact your eyes, skin, or

clothing. Do not lean over a battery when

attaching clamps. If acid splashes in eyes

or on skin, flush the area immediately with

large amounts of water. Refer to “Jump

Starting Procedure” in “In Case Of Emer

gency” for further information.



Battery gas is flammable and explosive.

Keep flame or sparks away from the

battery. Do not use a booster battery or any

other booster source with an output greater

than 12 Volts. Do not allow cable clamps to

touch each other.



Battery posts, terminals, and related acces

sories contain lead and lead compounds.

Wash hands after handling.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

233

Pressure Washing

DEALER SERVICE

An authorized dealer has the qualified service

personnel, 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 Service Manuals before

attempting any procedure yourself.

NOTE:

Intentional tampering with emissions control

systems may void your warranty and could

result in civil penalties being assessed against

you.

Engine Oil

Change Engine Oil

The oil change indicator system will remind you

that it is time to take your vehicle in for

scheduled maintenance. Refer to the

“Maintenance Plan” for further information.

NOTE:

Under no circumstances should oil change

intervals exceed 10,000 miles (16,000 km),

12 months or 350 hours of engine run time,

whichever comes first. The 350 hours of engine

run or idle time is generally only a concern for

fleet customers.

Engine Oil Selection

For best performance and maximum protection

under all types of operating conditions, the

manufacturer only recommends engine oils

that are API Certified and meet the

requirements of FCA Material Standard

MS-6395.

CAUTION!



It is essential when replacing the cables on

the battery that the positive cable is

attached to the positive post and the nega

tive cable is attached to the negative post.

Battery posts are marked positive (+) and

negative (-) and are 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.

CAUTION!

Cleaning the engine compartment with a high

pressure washer is not recommended.

Precautions have been taken to safeguard all

parts and connections however, the

pressures generated by these machines is

such that complete protection against water

ingress cannot be guaranteed.

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.

234

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

American Petroleum Institute (API) Engine Oil

Identification Symbol

This symbol means that the oil has

been certified by the American

Petroleum Institute (API). The

manufacturer only recommends API

Certified engine oils.
This symbol certifies 0W-20, 5W-20, 0W-30,

5W-30 and 10W-30 engine oils.

Engine Oil Viscosity (SAE Grade) — 3.6L

Engine

Mopar SAE 5W-20 engine oil approved to FCA

Material Standard MS-6395 such as Pennzoil,

Shell Helix or equivalent is recommended for all

operating temperatures. This engine oil

improves low temperature starting and vehicle

fuel economy.

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 Compartment”

illustration in this section.

NOTE:

Mopar SAE 5W-30 engine oil approved to FCA

Material Standard MS-6395 such as Pennzoil,

Shell Helix or equivalent may be used when SAE

5W-20 engine oil meeting MS-6395 is not

available.

Lubricants which do not have both the engine

oil certification mark and the correct SAE

viscosity grade number should not be used.

Synthetic Engine Oils

You may use synthetic engine oils provided the

recommended oil quality requirements are met,

and the recommended maintenance intervals

for oil and filter changes are followed.
Synthetic engine oils which do not have both the

engine oil certification mark and the correct SAE

viscosity grade number should not be used.

Materials Added To Engine Oil

The manufacturer strongly recommends

against the addition 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 additives.

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

an authorized dealer, service station or govern

mental 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 with a

new filter at every engine oil change.
Engine Oil Filter Selection
This manufacturer's engines have a full-flow

type disposable 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 engine oil filters are high quality

oil filters and are recommended.

CAUTION!

Do not use chemical flushes in your engine oil

as the chemicals can damage your engine.

Such damage is not covered by the New

Vehicle Limited Warranty.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

235

Engine Air Cleaner Filter

Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section

for the proper maintenance intervals.

NOTE:

Be sure to follow the “Severe Duty Conditions”

maintenance interval if applicable.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter Selection
The quality of replacement engine air cleaner

filters varies considerably. Only high quality

filters should be used to ensure most efficient

service. Mopar engine air cleaner filters are a

high quality filter and are recommended.

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.

Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling R-134a

— If Equipped

R-134a Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a

hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) that is an

ozone-friendly substance. The manufacturer

recommends that air conditioning service be

performed by an authorized dealer or other

service facilities using recovery and recycling

equipment.

NOTE:

Use only manufacturer approved A/C system

PAG compressor oil and refrigerants.

A/C Air Filter

Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in the

“Scheduled Servicing” chapter for the proper

maintenance intervals.

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.

WARNING!



Use only refrigerants and compressor lubri

cants approved by the manufacturer for

your air conditioning system. Some unap

proved refrigerants are flammable and can

explode, injuring you. Other unapproved

refrigerants or lubricants can cause the

system to fail, requiring costly repairs.

Refer to Warranty Information Book, for

further warranty information.



The air conditioning system contains refrig

erant 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.

CAUTION!

Do not use chemical flushes in your air

conditioning system as the chemicals can

damage your air conditioning components.

Such damage is not covered by the New

Vehicle Limited Warranty.

236

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

The A/C air filter is located in the fresh air inlet

behind the glove compartment. Perform the

following procedure to replace the filter:

1. Open the glove compartment and remove

all contents.

2. Push in on the sides of the glove

compartment, remove tether and lower the

door.

3. Pivot the glove compartment downward.

4. Disengage the two retaining tabs that

secure the filter cover to the HVAC housing,

and remove the cover.

A/C Air Filter Replacement

5. Remove the A/C air filter by pulling it

straight out of the housing.

6. Install the A/C air filter with the arrow on the

filter pointing toward the floor. When

installing the filter cover, make sure the

retaining tabs fully engage the cover.

7. Rotate the glove compartment door back

into position and reinstall tether.

Accessory Drive Belt Inspection

WARNING!

Do not remove the cabin air filter while the

vehicle is running, or while the ignition is in

the ACC or ON/RUN mode. With the cabin air

filter removed and the blower operating, the

blower can contact hands and may propel dirt

and debris into your eyes, resulting in

personal injury.

CAUTION!

The cabin air filter is identified with an arrow

to indicate airflow direction through the filter.

Failure to properly install the filter will result

in the need to replace it more often.

WARNING!



Do not attempt to inspect an accessory

drive belt with vehicle running.



When working near the radiator cooling fan,

disconnect the fan motor lead. The fan is

temperature controlled and can start at any

time regardless of ignition mode. You could

be injured by the moving fan blades.



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 compe

tent mechanic.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

237

When inspecting accessory drive belts, small

cracks that run across ribbed surface of belt

from rib to rib, are considered normal. These

are not a reason to replace belt. However,

cracks running along a rib (not across) are not

normal. Any belt with cracks running along a rib

must be replaced. Also have the belt replaced if

it has excessive wear, frayed cords or severe

glazing.

Accessory Belt (Serpentine Belt)

Conditions that would require replacement:



Rib chunking (one or more ribs has sepa

rated from belt body)



Rib or belt wear



Longitudinal belt cracking (cracks between

two ribs)



Belt slips



“Groove jumping" (belt does not maintain

correct position on pulley)



Belt broken (note: identify and correct

problem before new belt is installed)



Noise (objectionable squeal, squeak, or

rumble is heard or felt while drive belt is in

operation)

Some conditions can be caused by a faulty

component such as a belt pulley. Belt pulleys

should be carefully inspected for damage and

proper alignment.
Belt replacement on some models requires the

use of special tools, we recommend having your

vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer.

Body Lubrication

Locks and all body pivot points, including such

items as seat tracks, door hinge pivot points

and rollers, liftgate, tailgate, decklid, sliding

doors and hood hinges, should be lubricated

periodically with a lithium based grease, such

as Mopar Spray White Lube to ensure quiet,

easy operation and to protect against rust and

wear. Prior to the application 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

components 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 Autumn and

Spring. Apply a small amount of a high quality

lubricant, such as Mopar Lock Cylinder

Lubricant directly into the lock cylinder.

238

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

(Continued)

Windshield Wiper Blades

Clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades and

the windshield 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.
Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or

ice from the windshield. Keep the blade rubber

out of contact with petroleum products such as

engine oil, gasoline, etc.

NOTE:

Life expectancy of wiper blades varies

depending on geographical area and frequency

of use. Poor performance of blades may be

present with chattering, marks, water lines or

wet spots. If any of these conditions are

present, clean the wiper blades or replace as

necessary.

Exhaust System

The best protection against carbon monoxide

entry into the vehicle body is a properly

maintained engine exhaust system.
If you notice a change in the sound of the

exhaust system; or if the exhaust fumes can be

detected inside the vehicle; or when the

underside or rear of the vehicle is damaged;

have an authorized technician inspect the

complete exhaust system and adjacent body

areas for broken, damaged, deteriorated, or

mispositioned parts. Open seams or loose

connections could permit exhaust fumes to

seep into the passenger compartment. In

addition, have the exhaust system inspected

each time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or

oil change. Replace as required.

WARNING!



Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They

contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is

colorless and odorless. Breathing it can

make you unconscious and can eventually

poison you. To avoid breathing CO, refer to

“Safety Tips” in “Safety” for further

information.



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.

CAUTION!



The catalytic converter requires the use of

unleaded fuel only. Leaded gasoline will

destroy the effectiveness of the catalyst as

an emissions control device and may seri

ously reduce engine performance and

cause serious damage to the engine.

WARNING!

(Continued)

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

239

Under normal operating conditions, the

catalytic converter will not require

maintenance. However, it is important to keep

the engine properly tuned to ensure proper

catalyst operation and prevent possible catalyst

damage.

NOTE:

Intentional tampering with emissions control

systems can result in civil penalties being

assessed against you.

In unusual situations involving grossly malfunc

tioning engine operation, a scorching odor may

suggest severe and abnormal catalyst

overheating. If this occurs, stop the vehicle, turn

off the engine and allow it to cool. Service,

including a tune-up to manufacturer's specifi

cations, should be obtained immediately.
To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter

damage:



Do not interrupt the ignition when the trans

mission is in gear and the vehicle is in

motion.



Do not try to start the vehicle by pushing or

towing the vehicle.



Do not idle the engine with any ignition

components disconnected or removed, such

as when diagnostic testing, or for prolonged

periods during very rough idle or malfunc

tioning operating conditions.

Cooling System



Damage to the catalytic converter can

result if your vehicle is not kept in proper

operating condition. In the event of engine

malfunction, particularly involving engine

misfire or other apparent loss of perfor

mance, have your vehicle serviced

promptly. Continued operation of your

vehicle with a severe malfunction could

cause the converter to overheat, resulting

in possible damage to the converter and

vehicle.

CAUTION!

(Continued)

WARNING!



You or others can be badly burned by hot

engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from

your radiator. If you see or hear steam

coming from under the hood, do not open

the hood until the radiator has had time to

cool. Never open a cooling system pressure

cap when the radiator or coolant bottle is

hot.



Keep hands, tools, clothing, and jewelry

away from the radiator cooling fan when

the hood is raised. The fan starts automati

cally and may start at any time, whether the

engine is running or not.



When working near the radiator cooling fan,

disconnect the fan motor lead or turn the

ignition to the OFF mode. The fan is

temperature controlled and can start at any

time the ignition is in the ON mode.

240

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Engine Coolant Checks

Check the engine coolant (antifreeze)

protection every 12 months (before the onset of

freezing weather, where applicable). If the

engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty, the system

should be drained, flushed, and refilled with

fresh OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032) by

an authorized dealer. Check the front of the

A/C condenser for any accumulation of bugs,

leaves, etc. If dirty, clean by gently spraying

water from a garden hose vertically down the

face of the condenser.
Check the engine cooling system hoses for

brittle rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, and

tightness of the connection at the coolant

recovery bottle and radiator. Inspect the entire

system for leaks. DO NOT REMOVE THE

COOLANT PRESSURE CAP WHEN THE COOLING

SYSTEM IS HOT.

Cooling System — Drain, Flush And Refill

NOTE:

Some vehicles require special tools to add

coolant properly. Failure to fill these systems

properly could lead to severe internal engine

damage. If any coolant is needed to be added to

the system please contact an authorized

dealer.

If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or

contains visible sediment, have an authorized

dealer clean and flush with OAT coolant

(antifreeze) (conforming to MS.90032).
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section

for the proper maintenance intervals.

Selection Of Coolant

Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical

Specifications” for further information.

NOTE:



Mixing of engine coolant (antifreeze) other

than specified Organic Additive Technology

(OAT) engine coolant (antifreeze), may result

in engine damage and may decrease corro

sion protection. Organic Additive Technology

(OAT) engine coolant is different and should

not be mixed with Hybrid Organic Additive

Technology (HOAT) engine coolant (anti

freeze) or any “globally compatible” coolant

(antifreeze). If a non-OAT engine coolant

(antifreeze) is introduced into the cooling

system in an emergency, the cooling system

will need to be drained, flushed, and refilled

with fresh OAT coolant (conforming to

MS.90032), by an authorized dealer as soon

as possible.



Do not use water alone or alcohol-based

engine coolant (antifreeze) products. Do not

use additional rust inhibitors or antirust prod

ucts, as they may not be compatible with the

radiator engine coolant and may plug the

radiator.



This vehicle has not been designed for use

with propylene glycol-based engine coolant

(antifreeze). Use of propylene glycolbased

engine coolant (antifreeze) is not

recommended.



Some vehicles require special tools to add

coolant properly. Failure to fill these systems

properly could lead to severe internal engine

damage. If any coolant is needed to be added

to the system please contact an authorized

dealer.

Adding Coolant

Your vehicle has been built with an improved

engine coolant (OAT coolant conforming to

MS.90032) that allows extended maintenance

intervals. This engine coolant (antifreeze) can

be used up to ten years or 150,000 miles

(240,000 km) before replacement.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

241

To prevent reducing this extended maintenance

period, it is important that you use the same

engine coolant (OAT coolant conforming to

MS.90032) throughout the life of your vehicle.
Please review these recommendations for

using Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine

coolant (antifreeze) that meets the

requirements of FCA Material Standard

MS.90032. When adding engine coolant

(antifreeze):



We recommend using Mopar

Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile

(240,000 km) Formula OAT (Organic Additive

Technology) that meets the requirements of

FCA Material Standard MS.90032.



Mix a minimum solution of 50% OAT engine

coolant that meets the requirements of FCA

Material Standard MS.90032 and distilled

water. Use higher concentrations (not to

exceed 70%) if temperatures below −34°F

(−37°C) are anticipated. Please contact an

authorized dealer for assistance.



Use only high purity water such as distilled or

deionized water when mixing the water/

engine coolant (antifreeze) solution. The use

of lower quality water will reduce the amount

of corrosion protection in the engine cooling

system.

NOTE:



It is the owner's responsibility to maintain the

proper level of protection against freezing

according to the temperatures occurring in

the area where the vehicle is operated.



Some vehicles require special tools to add

coolant properly. Failure to fill these systems

properly could lead to severe internal engine

damage. If any coolant is needed to be added

to the system, please contact a local autho

rized dealer.



Mixing engine coolant (antifreeze) types is

not recommended and can result in cooling

system damage. If HOAT and OAT coolant are

mixed in an emergency, have a authorized

dealer drain, flush, and refill with OAT coolant

(conforming to MS.90032) as soon as

possible.

Cooling System Pressure Cap

The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss

of engine coolant (antifreeze), and to ensure

that engine coolant (antifreeze) will return to

the radiator from the coolant expansion bottle/

recovery tank if so equipped.
The cap should be inspected and cleaned if

there is any accumulation of foreign material on

the sealing surfaces.

WARNING!



Do not open hot engine cooling system.

Never add engine coolant (antifreeze) when

the engine is overheated. Do not loosen or

remove the cap to cool an overheated

engine. Heat causes pressure to build up in

the cooling system. To prevent scalding or

injury, do not remove the pressure cap

while the system is hot or under pressure.



Do not use a pressure cap other than the

one specified for your vehicle. Personal

injury or engine damage may result.

242

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Disposal Of Used Coolant

Used ethylene glycol-based coolant (antifreeze)

is a regulated substance requiring proper

disposal. Check with your local authorities to

determine the disposal rules for your

community. To prevent ingestion by animals or

children, do not store ethylene glycol-based

coolant in open containers or allow it to remain

in puddles on the ground. If ingested by a child

or pet, seek emergency assistance

immediately. Clean up any ground spills

immediately.

Points To Remember

NOTE:

When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/

kilometers of operation, you may observe vapor

coming from the front of the engine

compartment. This is normally a result of

moisture from rain, snow, or high humidity

accumulating on the radiator and being

vaporized when the thermostat opens, allowing

hot engine coolant (antifreeze) to enter the

radiator.

If an examination of your engine compartment

shows no evidence of radiator or hose leaks,

the vehicle may be safely driven. The vapor will

soon dissipate.



Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.



Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator

and in the coolant expansion bottle. If engine

coolant (antifreeze) needs to be added, the

contents of the coolant expansion bottle

must also be protected against freezing.



If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) addi

tions are required, the cooling system should

be pressure tested for leaks.



Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concen

tration at a minimum of 50% OAT coolant

(conforming to MS.90032) and distilled

water for proper corrosion protection of your

engine which contains aluminum

components.



Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle

overflow 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.



Do not change the thermostat for Summer or

Winter operation. If replacement is ever

necessary, install ONLY the correct type ther

mostat. Other designs may result in unsatis

factory engine coolant (antifreeze)

performance, poor gas mileage, and

increased emissions.

Brake System

In order to ensure brake system performance,

all brake system components should be

inspected periodically. Refer to the

“Maintenance Plan” in this section for the

proper maintenance intervals.

WARNING!

Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure

and possibly a collision. 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 would not have your full braking

capacity in an emergency.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

243

(Continued)

Master Cylinder — Brake Fluid Level Check

The fluid level in the master cylinder should be

checked when performing underhood services,

or immediately if the “Brake System Warning

Light” indicates system failure.
Clean the top of the master cylinder area before

removing the cap. Add fluid to bring the level up

to the top of the “FULL” mark on the side of the

master cylinder reservoir.
Overfilling of fluid is not recommended because

it may cause leaking in the system.
Add enough fluid to bring the 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.

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 And Lubricants” in

“Technical Specifications” for further

information.

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 And Lubricants” in “Technical

Specifications” for fluid specifications. It is

important to maintain the transmission fluid at

the correct level using the recommended fluid.

No chemical flushes should be used in any

transmission; only the approved lubricant

should be used.

WARNING!



Use only manufacturer's recommended

brake fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubri

cants” in “Technical Specifications” for

further information. Using the wrong type of

brake fluid can severely damage your brake

system and/or impair its performance. The

proper type of brake fluid for your vehicle is

also identified on the original factory

installed hydraulic master cylinder

reservoir.



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 reser

voir 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 prolonged 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.



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.

WARNING!

(Continued)

244

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

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 supplemental

additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid

additives 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.

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 transmission fill tube is

capped and no dipstick is provided. An

authorized dealer can check your transmission

fluid level using a special service dipstick. If you

notice fluid leakage or transmission

malfunction, visit an authorized dealer

immediately to have the transmission fluid level

checked. Operating the vehicle with an

improper fluid level can cause severe

transmission damage.

Fluid And Filter Changes

Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section

for the proper maintenance intervals.
In addition, change the fluid and filter if the fluid

becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if

the transmission is disassembled for any

reason.

RAISING THE VEHICLE

In the case where it is necessary to raise the

vehicle, go to an authorized dealer or service

station.

CAUTION!

Using a transmission fluid other than the

manufacturer’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 And Lubricants” in

“Technical Specifications” for fluid

specifications.

CAUTION!

Do not use chemical flushes in your

transmission as the chemicals can damage

your transmission components. Such damage

is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited

Warranty.

CAUTION!

If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an

authorized dealer immediately. Severe

transmission damage may occur. An

authorized dealer has the proper tools to

adjust the fluid level accurately.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

245

TIRES

Tire Safety Information

Tire safety information will cover aspects of the

following information: Tire Markings, Tire Identi

fication Numbers, Tire Terminology and

Definitions, Tire Pressures, and Tire Loading.

Tire Markings

NOTE:



P (Passenger) — Metric tire sizing is based on

US design standards. P-Metric tires have the

letter “P” molded into the sidewall preceding

the size designation.

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 "P" is absent from this tire

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



LT (Light Truck) — Metric tire sizing is based

on US 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 preceding the size

designation.

Example: LT235/85R16.



Temporary spare tires are designed for

temporary emergency use only. Temporary

high pressure compact spare tires have the

letter “T” or “S” molded into the sidewall

preceding the size designation.

Example: T145/80D18 103M.



High flotation tire sizing is based on US

design standards and it begins with the tire

diameter molded into the sidewall.

Example: 31x10.5 R15 LT.

1 — US DOT Safety Standards Code

(TIN)
2 — Size Designation

3 — Service Description
4 — Maximum Load
5 — Maximum Pressure
6 — Treadwear, Traction and Tempera

ture Grades

246

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Tire Sizing Chart

EXAMPLE:

Example Size Designation: P215/65R15XL 95H, 215/65R15 96H, LT235/85R16C, T145/80D18 103M, 31x10.5 R15 LT
P = Passenger car tire size based on US design standards, or
"....blank...." = Passenger car tire based on European design standards, or
LT = Light truck tire based on US design standards, or
T or S = Temporary spare tire or
31 = Overall diameter in inches (in)
215, 235, 145 = Section width in millimeters (mm)
65, 85, 80 = Aspect ratio in percent (%)



Ratio of section height to section width of tire, or

10.5 = Section width in inches (in)
R = Construction code



"R" means radial construction, or



"D" means diagonal or bias construction

15, 16, 18 = Rim diameter in inches (in)
Service Description:
95 = Load Index



A numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can carry

Dodge Grand Caravan (2020 year). Manual in english - page 15