Chrysler 2004 300M User manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
1INTRODUCTION .............................................................3
2THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE ...........................7
3UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE ............................49
4UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL .................................107
5STARTING AND OPERATING ................................................153
6WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES .............................................181
7MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE ..............................................195
8MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES ................................................239
9IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE .......................................255
10 INDEX ...................................................................265
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INTRODUCTION
CONTENTS
䡵Introduction ...........................4
䡵How To Use This Manual .................4
䡵Warnings And Cautions ..................6
䡵Vehicle Identification Number ..............6
1

INTRODUCTION
This manual has been prepared with the assistance of
service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with
the operation and maintenance of your new vehicle. It is
supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and
various customer oriented documents. You are urged to
read these publications carefully. Following the instruc-
tions and recommendations in this manual will help
assure safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle.
NOTE: After you read the manual, it should be stored
in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with
the vehicle when sold.
When it comes to service, remember that your manufac-
turers dealer knows your vehicle best, has the factory-
trained technicians and genuine Mopar威parts, and is
interested in your satisfaction.
WARNING!
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain
vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
Consult the table of contents to determine which section
contains the information you desire.
The detailed index, at the rear of this manual, contains a
complete listing of all subjects.
Consult the following table for a description of the
symbols that may be used on your vehicle or throughout
this owner’s manual:
4 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION 5
1

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
This manual contains WARNINGS against operating
procedures which could result in an accident or bodily
injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against procedures
which could result in damage to your vehicle. If you do
not read this entire manual you may miss important
information. Observe all Warnings and Cautions.
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is on a stamped
plate at the left front corner of the instrument panel,
visible through the windshield. This number also ap-
pears on the Automobile Information Disclosure Label
affixed to a window on your vehicle. Save this label as a
convenient record of your vehicle identification number
and optional equipment.
6 INTRODUCTION

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
䡵A Word About Your Keys .................9
▫Sentry Key Engine Immobilizer — If Equipped . 9
▫Ignition Key Removal ...................12
▫Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................12
▫Floor Shift Ignition Interlock System .........13
䡵Glove Compartment Lock .................13
䡵Illuminated Entry System .................14
䡵Door Locks ...........................14
▫Power Door Locks .....................14
▫Central Locking Feature — If Equipped ......15
▫“Child-Protection” Lock System (Rear Doors) . .16
▫Automatic (Rolling) Door Locks ............16
▫Automatic Unlock On Exit (Only Available If
Automatic Door Locks Enabled) ............18
䡵Remote Keyless Entry ....................18
▫To Unlock The Doors ...................19
▫Enable/Disable Lamp Flash ...............19
▫To Lock The Doors .....................19
▫Enable/Disable Horn Chirp ...............19
▫To Unlock The Trunk ....................19
▫Enable/Disable Trunk Press And Hold .......20
▫Panic Alarm ..........................20
▫To Use The Panic Alarm .................20
▫To Program Additional Transmitters .........20
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▫Transmitter Linked To Memory Programming . .21
▫General Information ....................22
▫Transmitter Battery Service ...............23
䡵Security Alarm System ...................23
▫To Set The Alarm ......................24
▫To Disarm The System ...................24
▫Security System Manual Override ...........25
䡵Power Windows ........................25
䡵Remote Trunk Lid Release ................26
䡵Trunk Safety Warning ....................26
▫Trunk Emergency Release ................27
䡵Occupant Restraints .....................27
▫Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................28
▫Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............32
▫Seat Belt Extender ......................32
▫Driver And Right Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) - Airbag ............33
▫Child Restraint ........................40
䡵Engine Break-In Recommendations ..........47
䡵Safety Tips ............................47
▫Exhaust Gas ..........................47
▫Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle ..............................48
▫Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside
The Vehicle ..........................48
8 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS
You can insert the double sided keys into the locks with
either side up.
The dealer that sold you your new vehicle has the key
code numbers for your vehicle locks. These numbers can
be used to order duplicate keys only from your dealer.
Ask your dealer for these numbers and keep them in a
safe place.
CAUTION!
An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always
remove the key from the ignition and lock all the
doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
Sentry Key Engine Immobilizer — If Equipped
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unautho-
rized operation of the vehicle by disabling the engine.
The system will shut the engine down after 2 seconds of
running if an invalid key is used to start the vehicle. This
system utilizes ignition keys which have an electronic
chip (transponder) embedded into them. Only keys that
have been programmed to the vehicle can be used to start
and operate the vehicle for more than the two second
validation time period.
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System does not need to be
armed or activated. Operation of the system is automatic
regardless of whether or not the vehicle is locked or
unlocked. During normal operation, the Sentry Key
Indicator light, located on the instrument panel upper
cover, will come on for 3 seconds immediately after the
ignition is turned on for a bulb check. Afterwards, if the
bulb remains on solid, this indicates a problem with the
electronics. If the bulb begins to flash after the bulb check,
this indicates that an invalid key has been used to start
the vehicle or there is a communication failure between
the transponder and the Sentry Key Immobilizer module.
Both of these lamp conditions will result in the engine
being shut down after 2 seconds of running. Keep in
mind that a key which has not been programmed is also
considered an invalid key even if it is cut to fit the
ignition for that vehicle. All of the keys provided with
your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle
electronics.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 9
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If the Sentry Key Immobilizer System indicator light
comes on during normal vehicle operation (it has been
running for longer than 10 seconds) a fault has been
detected in the electronics and the vehicle should be
serviced as soon as possible.
NOTE:
• The Sentry Immobilizer System is not compatible with
remote starting systems. Use of these systems may
result in vehicle starting problems and loss of security
protection.
• Mobil SpeedPass, additional sentry keys, or any other
transponder equipped components on the same key-
chain will not
cause a key-related (transponder)
fault unless the additional part is physically held
against the ignition key being used when starting
the vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other RF Elec-
tronics will also not cause interference with this
system.
The Theft Alarm Light, located on top of the instrument
panel, will illuminate for about 3 seconds when the
ignition switch is first turned to the On position. If the
vehicle electronics do not receive a valid signal from the
ignition key, the theft alarm light will flash continuously
to signal that the vehicle has been immobilized. If the
Theft Alarm Light remains On during vehicle operation,
it indicates a fault in the system electronics.
Important Note about Service
A four digit PIN is needed to service the Sentry Key
Immobilizer System. This number can be obtained by the
dealership. However, this number can also be found on
your customer invoice that you were given upon receipt
of your vehicle. YOU MUST BRING ALL SENTRY KEYS
that are programmed to your vehicle with you when
bringing your vehicle in for service.
Replacement Keys
NOTE:
Only keys that have been programmed to the
vehicle electronics can be used to start the vehicle. Once
a Sentry Key has been programmed to a vehicle, it can
not be programmed to any other vehicle.
At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four digit PIN number. This number is required
for dealer replacement of keys. Duplication of keys may
be performed at an authorized dealer or by using the
10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Customer Key Programming procedure. This procedure
consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle
electronics. A blank key is one which has never been
programmed.
NOTE: When having the Sentry Key System serviced,
bring all vehicle keys to the dealer.
Customer Key Programming
You can program new keys to the system if you have two
valid keys by doing the following:
1. Insert the first valid key into the ignition and turn the
ignition On for at least 3 seconds but no longer than 15
seconds.
Turn the ignition Off and remove the first key.
2. Insert the second valid key and switch the ignition On
within 15 seconds. After ten seconds a chime will sound
and the Theft Alarm Light will begin to flash.
Turn the ignition Off and remove the second key.
3. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition and switch
the ignition On within 60 seconds. After 10 seconds a
single chime will sound. The Theft Alarm Light will stop
flashing, and turn On for 3 seconds; then turn Off.
The new Sentry Key has been programmed. Repeat this
process to program up to a total of 8 keys.
CAUTION!
An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always
remove the key from the ignition, lock the doors,
close the windows, and raise the top when leaving
the vehicle unattended.
General Information
The Sentry Key system complies with FCC rules part 15
and with RS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions:
1. this device may not cause harmful interference
2. this device must accept any interference that may be
received, including interference that may cause undes-
ired operation
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11
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Ignition Key Removal
Place the shift lever in Park and make sure that the shift
knob push-button (vehicles with floor shift) is in the out
position.
Turn the key to the Lock position and remove the key.
NOTE: If you try to remove the key before you place
the lever in Park, the key may become trapped tempo-
rarily in the key cylinder. If this occurs, turn the key
clockwise slightly, then remove the key as described.
Key-In-Ignition Reminder
Opening the driver’s door when the key is in the ignition
and is in the OFF, LOCK, or ACC position, sounds a
signal to remind you to remove the key.
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Floor Shift Ignition Interlock System
This system prevents the key from being removed unless
the shift lever is in PARK and the shift knob push button
is out. It also prevents shifting out of PARK unless the
key is in the OFF or RUN positions.
GLOVE COMPARTMENT LOCK
The glove box lock has been designed so that the key can
be inserted only about half way. Do not force the key past
this point.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13
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ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM
The interior lights will come on when you unlock the
vehicle with the remote keyless entry or central unlock.
They will remain on for about 30 seconds after all doors
are closed then fade to off.
The lights also will fade to off if you turn on the ignition
after you close all the doors.
DOOR LOCKS
Power Door Locks
There is a door lock switch on each front door trim panel.
Press this switch to lock or unlock the four doors.
14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

If you press the door lock switch while the keys are in the
ignition switch, with the ignition switch in the ACC,
LOCK, or OFF position, and the driver’s door is open, the
doors will not lock. A chime will sound as a reminder to
remove the keys.
WARNING!
For personal security and safety in the event of an
accident, lock the vehicle doors as you drive and
when you park and leave the vehicle.
The rear doors cannot be opened from inside the vehicle
until you pull up the lock plungers.
Central Locking Feature — If Equipped
Turning the key in the driver’s door to the unlock
position once will unlock only the driver’s door. Turning
the driver’s door lock to the unlock position twice within
five seconds, will unlock all doors.
Locking either front door with the key will lock all doors.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15
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“Child-Protection” Lock System (Rear Doors)
To provide a safer environment for small children riding
in the rear seat, the rear doors of your vehicle have the
“child-protection” door lock system.
To use the system, open each rear door and use a key to
move the control near the door latch UP to the “Engage”
position as shown on the door label. When the system on
a door is engaged, that door can be opened only by using
the outside door handle. This will occur only if the inside
door lock is in the unlocked (up) position.
NOTE: For emergency exit with the system engaged,
move the lock plunger up (unlocked position), lower the
window and open the door with the outside door handle.
WARNING!
Avoid trapping anyone in the vehicle in a collision.
Remember that the rear doors can only be opened
from the outside when the child protection locks are
engaged.
Automatic (Rolling) Door Locks
On vehicles equipped with an EVIC (Electronic Vehicle
Information Center), these functions can be selected at
the EVIC using the Customer Programmable Features.
Refer to the EVIC-Customer Programmable Features for
details.
The doors will lock automatically, as delivered from the
factory, if:
1. The transaxle is in gear,
2. all doors are closed,
16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

3. vehicle speed is above 15 m.p.h. (24 km/h),
4. the accelerator pedal is depressed.
The Automatic Door Locks can be disabled or re-enabled
by performing the same following procedure:
1. Close all doors and place the key in the ignition.
2. Cycle the ignition switch between OFF and ON/RUN
and back to OFF 4 times ending up in the OFF position.
3. Depress the power door lock switch to lock the doors.
4. A single chime will indicate the completion of the
programming.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17
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Automatic Unlock on Exit (Only Available if
Automatic Door Locks Enabled)
This feature will unlock all the doors when the driver’s
door is opened and the ignition switch is in the LOCK
position. This function is disabled as delivered from the
factory. Automatic Unlock on Exit can be enabled or
disabled by performing the following procedure:
1. Close all doors and place the key in the ignition.
2. Cycle the ignition switch between ON/RUN and OFF
4 times ending up in the OFF position.
3. Press upward on the power door unlock switch to
unlock the doors.
4. A single chime will indicate the completion of the
programming.
Remote Keyless Entry
This system allows you to lock or unlock the doors and
unlock the trunk from distances up to 40 feet (12 meters)
using a transmitter. You don’t have to point the transmit-
ter at the vehicle to activate the system.
18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To unlock the doors:
Press and release the unlock button on the transmitter.
NOTE: The system may be programmed to unlock all
the doors upon the first press of the Unlock button. To
toggle between the first press unlock of driver’s door to
unlock of all doors, perform the following procedure:
1. Press and hold the Unlock button on the transmitter.
2. Continue to hold the Unlock button, wait at least 4 but
no longer than 10 seconds, then press the Lock button.
3. Release both buttons.
Enable/Disable Lamp Flash:
The Lamp Flash can be enabled or disabled by perform-
ing the following procedure:
1. Press and hold the Lock button on the transmitter.
2. Continue to hold the Lock button, wait at least 4 but
no longer than 10 seconds, then press the Trunk button.
3. Release both buttons.
To lock the doors:
Press and release the LOCK button to lock all doors. The
horn will chirp once and the park and tail lights will flash
to acknowledge the signal.
Enable/Disable Horn chirp:
The horn chirp feature can be enabled or disabled by
performing the following procedure:
1. Press and hold the Lock button on the transmitter.
2. Continue to hold the Lock button, wait at least 4 but
no longer than 10 seconds, then press the Unlock button.
3. Release both buttons.
NOTE: To enable/disable the Lamp Flash, see proce-
dure described above.
To unlock the trunk:
Press and hold the trunk button on the transmitter to
unlatch the trunk.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19
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Enable/Disable Trunk Press and Hold:
The transmitter can be programmed to unlatch the trunk
immediately upon activation of the Trunk button (with-
out pressing and holding) by performing the following
procedure:
1. Press and hold the Unlock button on the transmitter.
2. Continue to hold the Unlock button, wait at least 4 but
no longer than 10 seconds, then press the Trunk button.
3. Release both buttons.
Panic Alarm
The panic alarm unlocks the driver’s door, turns on the
interior lights, flashes the foglights and sounds the horn
for about 3 minutes or until the alarm is turned off. The
vehicle can be driven while in the Panic mode.
To Use The Panic Alarm:
Press and hold the Panic button to activate the alarm.
Press and hold the Panic button or unlock the door with
the key to deactivate the alarm. The alarm will also shut
itself off after 3 minutes or when vehicle speed reaches 15
m.p.h. (24 km/h).
To Program Additional Transmitters:
Up to 4 transmitters can be programmed to your vehicle.
To program a transmitter, perform the following proce-
dure.
On vehicles equipped with an EVIC (Electronic Vehicle
Information Center), these functions can be selected at
the EVIC using the Customer Programmable Features.
Refer to EVIC— Customer Programmable Features for
details.
NOTE: When entering program mode, all previously
programmed transmitters are erased from memory,
therefore you must reprogram ALL the transmitters
when you enter program mode.
20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE