Cooling System - Dodge Caliber Owner's Manual

In unusual situations involving grossly malfunc-
tioning engine operation, a scorching odor may
suggest severe and abnormal catalyst over-
heating. If this occurs, stop the vehicle, turn off
the engine and allow it to cool. Service, includ-
ing a tune up to manufacturers specifications,
should be obtained 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 for a prolonged period.
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Cooling System

WARNING!
• When working near the radiator cooling
fan, disconnect the fan motor lead or turn
the ignition switch to the OFF position. The
fan is temperature controlled and can start
at any time the ignition switch is in the ON
position.
• You or others can be badly burned by hot
coolant or steam from your radiator. If you
see or hear steam coming from under the
hood, do not open the hood until the radia-
tor has had time to cool. Never try to open
a cooling system pressure cap when the
radiator is hot.
Coolant Checks
Check engine coolant (antifreeze) protection
every 12 months (before the onset of freezing
weather, where applicable). If the engine cool-
ant (antifreeze) is dirty or rusty in appearance,
the system should be drained, flushed and
refilled with fresh engine coolant (antifreeze).
Check the front of the A/C condenser for any
JOB: @ibm2/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler/GRP_owners/JOB_202748-en-cal-10PM491-126-ENG-AA/DIV_og
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 coolant recovery bottle tubing for
brittle rubber, cracking , tears, cuts and tight-
ness of the connection at the bottle and radia-
tor. Inspect the entire system for leaks.
Cooling System – Drain, Flush And Refill
Refer to "Maintenance Schedule" for the proper
maintenance intervals.
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or
contains a considerable amount of sediment,
clean and flush with a reliable cooling system
cleaner. Follow with a thorough rinsing to re-
move all deposits and chemicals. Properly dis-
pose of old engine coolant (antifreeze).
Selection Of Coolant
Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
Parts" in "Maintaining Your Vehicle" for further
information.
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