Jeep 2004 Wrangler User manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
1INTRODUCTION .............................................................3
2THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE ...........................9
3UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE ............................43
4UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL .................................109
5STARTING AND OPERATING ................................................157
6WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES .............................................209
7MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE ..............................................221
8MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES ................................................261
9IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE .......................................279
10 INDEX ...................................................................287
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INTRODUCTION
CONTENTS
mIntroduction ...........................4
▫Roll Over Warning .....................4
mHow To Use This Manual .................6
mWarnings And Cautions ..................7
mVehicle Identification Number ..............7
mVehicle Modifications / Alterations ..........8
1

INTRODUCTION
Thank you for selecting a JeeptWrangler and welcome to
our worldwide family.
This is a specialized utility vehicle designed for both
on-road and off-road use. It can go places and perform
tasks for which conventional two-wheel drive enclosed
vehicles were not intended. It handles and maneuvers
differently from many passenger cars both on-road and
off-road, so take time to become familiar with your
vehicle.
Before you start to drive this vehicle, read the Owner’s
Manual. Be sure you are familiar with all vehicle controls,
particularly those used for braking, steering, transmis-
sion, and transfer case shifting. Learn how your vehicle
handles on different road surfaces. Your driving skills
will improve with experience. When driving off-road or
working the vehicle, don’t overload it or expect it to
overcome the laws of nature. Always observe federal,
state, provincial and local laws wherever you drive.
As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this
vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or an
accident. Be sure to read “On-Road/Off-Road Driving
Tips” in this manual.
Roll Over Warning
Utility vehicles have a significantly higher roll over rate
than other types of vehicles. This vehicle has a higher
ground clearance, higher center of gravity, and narrower
track than many passenger cars. It is capable of perform-
ing better in a wide variety of off-road applications.
Driven in an unsafe manner, all vehicles can be caused to
go out of control. Because of the higher center of gravity
and the narrower track, if this vehicle is out of control it
may roll over when some other vehicles may not.
Do not attempt sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers or other
unsafe driving actions that can cause loss of vehicle
control. Failure to operate this vehicle safely may result
in an accident, roll over of the vehicle and serious injury
or death. Because of its open-body construction, your
vehicle offers less protection than closed vehicles in the
event of an accident.
4 INTRODUCTION

Failure to use driver and passenger seat belts provided
is a major cause of severe or fatal injury. In fact, the U.S.
government notes that the universal use of existing seat
belts could cut the highway death toll by 10,000 or more
each year, and could reduce disabling injuries by 2
million annually. In a roll over crash, an unbelted person
is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing
a seal belt. Always buckle up.
Although your vehicle may be equipped with a soft top
or optional hard top to give the occupants protection
from the weather, these tops do not offer structural
protection in the event of an accident and do not change
the open-body characteristic of the vehicle. Even though
your vehicle has a sport bar and side bars for some extra
protection, it is a truly open vehicle-there is no structural
integrated top and it has low sides and a folding wind-
shield. Many of these vehicles do not have fully enclosed
hard doors.
Operating this vehicle at excessive speeds or while
intoxicated may result in loss of control, collision with
other vehicles or objects, going off the road, or overturn-
ing, any of which may lead to serious injury or death.
Also, failure to use standard seat belts subjects the
driver and passengers to a greater risk of being thrown
out of an open-body vehicle than out of a closed vehicle
in an accident which can result in injury or death.
INTRODUCTION 5
1

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 so that the new owner will be
aware of all safety warnings.
When it comes to service, remember that your authorized
dealer knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained
technicians and genuine Mopartparts, 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. In addition,
certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain prod-
ucts of component wear 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 the manual, contains a
complete listing of all subjects.
6 INTRODUCTION

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 found on a
stamped plate located on the left front corner of the
instrument panel pad, visible from outside of vehicle
through windshield. This number also appears on the
Automobile Information Disclosure Label affixed to a
window on your vehicle. Save this label for a convenient
record of your vehicle identification number and optional
equipment.
NOTE: It is illegal to remove the VIN plate.
INTRODUCTION 7
1

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS
WARNING!
Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle
could seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety
and may lead to an accident resulting in serious
injury or death.
8 INTRODUCTION

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
mA Word About Your Keys .................11
▫Ignition Key ..........................11
▫Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................12
mSentry Key Immobilizer System —
If Equipped
...........................12
▫Important Note About Service .............13
▫Replacement Keys ......................13
▫Customer Key Programming ..............13
▫General Information ....................14
mSteering Wheel Lock — If Equipped .........14
▫To Manually Lock The Steering Wheel .......14
▫To Release The Steering Wheel Lock .........14
mIlluminated Entry — If Equipped ...........15
mDoors And Locks .......................15
▫Door Locks ...........................15
mOccupant Restraints .....................16
▫Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................17
▫Adjustable Upper Shoulder Belt Anchorage ....21
▫Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............21
▫Seat Belt Extender ......................21
▫Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint Systems (SRS) — Airbags ..........22
▫Child Restraint ........................29
mEngine Break-In Recommendations ..........39
2

mSafety Tips ............................40
▫Exhaust Gas ..........................40
▫Safety Checks You Should Make
Inside The Vehicle ......................41
▫Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The
Vehicle ..............................41
10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS
The keys for your new vehicle are enclosed in a plastic
bag with the key code number on it. If you received your
keys without the bag, ask your dealer to give you the
number. The key code can also be obtained by the dealer
from your vehicle invoice.
Ignition Key
Insert the key fully, then turn the switch to one of the four
illustrated positions. The key can be inserted or with-
drawn only in the LOCK position.
To remove the ignition key on models with an automatic
transmission, place the gearshift lever in P (Park), turn
the ignition key to LOCK, and remove the key.
To remove the ignition key on models with a manual
transmission, depress and hold the key release button,
turn the ignition key to LOCK, and remove the key.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11
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Key-In-Ignition Reminder
Opening the driver’s door when the key is in the ignition,
sounds a signal to remind you to remove the key.
CAUTION!
Always remove the key from the ignition, and lock
all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM — IF
EQUIPPED
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) prevents
unauthorized 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 longer than the
2 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 SKIS indicator
light will come on for 3 seconds immediately after the
ignition switch is turned on for a bulb check. Afterwards,
if the bulb remains on, this indicates a malfunction in the
electronics. If the bulb begins to flash immediately after
the ignition switch is turned on, this indicates that an
invalid key is being used to start the vehicle. Both of
these 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.
If the SKIS 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 Key Immobilizer System is not compatible
with remote starting systems. Use of these systems
may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of
security protection.
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

• Mobil Speedpass™, additional Sentry Keys, or any
other transponder equipped components on the same
keychain 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. Also, cell phones, pagers, or other RF
electronics will not cause interference with this
system.
All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have
been programmed to the vehicle electronics.
Important Note About Service
A four digit PIN number is needed to service the Sentry
Key Immobilizer System. This number can be obtained
from your authorized dealer. However, this number can
also be found on your customer invoice that you were
given upon receipt of your vehicle.
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 cannot
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
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. Cut the additional Sentry Key Transponder blank(s) to
match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code.
2. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch and
turn the ignition switch ON for at least 3 seconds but no
longer than 15 seconds. Turn the ignition switch OFF and
remove the first key.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13
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3. Insert the second valid key and turn the ignition
switch ON within 15 seconds. After ten seconds, a chime
will sound and the SKIS indicator light will begin to
flash. Turn the ignition switch OFF and remove the
second key.
4. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition switch and
turn the ignition switch ON within 60 seconds. After 10
seconds, a single chime will sound. The SKIS indicator
light will stop flashing, 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.
General Information
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System complies with FCC
rules part 15 and with RSS-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.
STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering
wheel lock (manual transmission only). This lock pre-
vents steering the vehicle without the ignition key. If the
steering wheel is moved a half turn in either direction
and the key is not in the ignition, the steering wheel will
lock.
To Manually Lock the Steering Wheel
With the engine running, rotate the steering wheel 1/2
revolution from straight ahead position, turn off the
engine and remove the key. Rotate the steering wheel
slightly in both directions until the lock engages.
To Release the Steering Wheel Lock
Insert the key in the ignition and turn the wheel slightly
to the right or left to disengage the lock.
NOTE: If you turned the wheel to the right to engage
the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to
disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage
the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it.
14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

ILLUMINATED ENTRY — IF EQUIPPED
The interior lights will come on when you open any door.
The lights will remain on after all of the doors are closed,
and then fade to off or they will immediately fade to off
once the ignition switch is turned on.
DOORS AND LOCKS
NOTE:
The ignition key that is used to start the vehicle
is used to lock or unlock the doors, tailgate, console
storage, and glove box.
To unlock doors and tailgate insert the key and turn.
Once unlocked, the tailgate can be opened or closed
without using the key.
To open the tailgate, lift the latch release and swing open
the tailgate.
Door Locks
Doors on both hard-top and soft-top models are
equipped with a rocker-type interior door lock. To lock a
door when leaving your vehicle, press to the “Lock”
position and close the door.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15
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WARNING!
• For personal security reasons and safety in an
accident, lock the vehicle doors when you drive as
well as when you park and leave the vehicle.
• When leaving the vehicle always remove the key
from the ignition lock, and lock your vehicle. Do
not leave children unattended in the vehicle, or
with access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised
use of vehicle equipment may cause severe per-
sonal injuries and death.
OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS
Some of the most important safety features in your
vehicle are the restraint systems. These include the front
and rear seat belts for the driver and all passengers, and
front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. If
you will be carrying children too small for adult-size
belts, your seat belts can also be used to hold infant and
child restraint systems.
Please pay close attention to the information in this
section. It tells you how to use your restraint system
properly to keep you and your passengers as safe as
possible.
WARNING!
In a collision, you and your passengers can suffer
injuries, including fatalities, if you are not properly
buckled up. You can strike the interior of your
vehicle or other passengers, or you can be thrown out
of the vehicle. Always be sure you and others in your
vehicle are buckled up properly.
16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Buckle up even though you are an excellent driver, even
on short trips. Someone on the road may be a poor driver
and cause a collision that includes you. This can happen
far away from home or on your own street.
Research has shown that seat belts save lives, and that
they can reduce the seriousness of injuries in a collision.
Some of the worst injuries happen when people are
thrown from the vehicle. Seat belts reduce the possibility
of ejection and the risk of injury caused by striking the
inside of the vehicle. Everyone in a motor vehicle should
be belted at all times to reduce or prevent injuries.
Lap/Shoulder Belts
The outboard front and rear seats of your vehicle are
equipped with lap/shoulder belts.
The belt webbing retractor is designed to lock during
very sudden stops or collisions. This feature allows the
shoulder part of the belt to move freely with you under
normal conditions. But in a collision, the belt will lock
and reduce the risk of your striking the inside of the
vehicle or being thrown out.
WARNING!
• It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area,
inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision,
people riding in these areas are more likely to be
seriously injured or killed.
• Do not allow people to ride in any area of your
vehicle that is not equipped with seats and seat
belts.
• Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat using
a seat belt properly.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17
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WARNING!
• Wearing a seat belt incorrectly is dangerous. Seat
belts are designed to go around the large bones of
your body. These are the strongest parts of your
body and take the forces of a collision the best.
Wearing your belt in the wrong place could make
your injuries in a collision much worse. You
might suffer internal injuries, or you could even
slide out of part of the belt. Follow these instruc-
tions to wear your seat belt safely and to keep
your passengers safe, too.
• Two people should never be belted into a single
seat belt. People belted together can crash into one
another in an accident, hurting one another badly.
Never use a lap/shoulder belt or a lap belt for
more than one person, no matter what their size.
Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions
1. Enter the vehicle and close the door. Sit back and
adjust the seat.
2. The seat belt latch plate is above the back of the front
seat, next to your arm in the rear seat. Grasp the latch
plate and pull out the belt. Slide the latch plate up the
webbing as far as necessary to allow the belt to go around
your lap.
3. When the belt is long enough to fit, insert the latch
plate into the buckle until you hear a “click.”
18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!
•A belt that is buckled into the wrong buckle will
not protect you properly. The lap portion could
ride too high on your body, possibly causing
internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the
buckle nearest you.
•A belt that is loose will not protect you as well. In
a sudden stop you could move too far forward,
increasing the possibility of injury. Wear your seat
belt snugly.
•A belt that is worn under your arm is very
dangerous. Your body could strike the inside
surfaces of the vehicle in a collision, increasing
head and neck injury. A belt worn under the arm
can cause internal injuries. Ribs aren’t as strong as
shoulder bones. Wear the belt over your shoulder
so that the strongest bones will take the force in a
collision.
•A shoulder belt placed behind will not protect
you from injury during a collision. You are more
likely to hit your head in a collision if you do not
wear your shoulder belt. The lap and shoulder
belt are meant to be used together.
4. Position the lap belt across your thighs, below your
abdomen. To remove slack in the lap belt portion, pull up
on the shoulder belt. To loosen the lap belt if it is too tight,
tilt the latch plate and pull on the lap belt. A snug belt
reduces the risk of sliding under the belt in a collision.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19
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WARNING!
• A lap belt worn too high can increase the risk of
internal injury in a collision. The belt forces won’t
be at the strong hip and pelvic bones, but across
your abdomen. Always wear the lap belt as low as
possible and keep it snug.
• A twisted belt cannot do its job as well. In a
collision it could even cut into you. Be sure the
belt is straight. If you cannot straighten a belt in
your vehicle, take it to your dealer and have it
fixed.
5. Position the shoulder belt on your chest so that it is
comfortable and not resting on your neck. The retractor
will withdraw any slack in the belt.
6. To release the belt, push the red button on the buckle.
The belt will automatically retract to its stowed position.
If necessary, slide the latch plate down the webbing to
allow the belt to retract fully.
WARNING!
A frayed or torn belt could rip apart in a collision
and leave you with no protection. Inspect the belt
system periodically, checking for cuts, frays, or loose
parts. Damaged parts must be replaced immediately.
Do not disassemble or modify the system. Seat belt
assemblies must be replaced after a collision if they
have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing,
etc.).
20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE