VEHICLE MAINTENANCE 2021 Dodge Charger

Owner’s Manuals 2021 VEHICLE MAINTENANCE

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE

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.

Intentional tampering with emissions control systems may void your warranty and could result in civil penalties being assessed against you.

ENGINE OIL

Engine Oil Selection — 3.6L And 5.7L Engines

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 manufacturer Material Standard MS-6395.

Hemi engines at times can tick right after startup and then quiet down after approxi- mately 30 seconds. This is normal and will not harm the engine. This characteristic can be caused by short drive cycles. For example, if the vehicle is started then shut off after driving a short distance. Upon restarting, you may experi- ence a ticking sound. Other causes could be if the vehicle is unused for an extended period of time, incorrect oil, extended oil changes or extended idling. If the engine continues to tick or if the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) comes on, see the nearest authorized dealer.

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.

You may use synthetic engine oils provided the 8

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.

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.

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 governmental agency for advice on how and where used oil and oil filters can be safely discarded in your area.

The engine oil filter should be replaced with a new filter at every engine oil change.

A full-flow type disposable oil filter should be used for replacement. The quality of

replacement filters varies considerably. Only high quality Mopar® certified filters should be used.

For the proper maintenance intervals

Be sure to follow the “Severe Duty Conditions” maintenance interval if applicable.

The quality of replacement filters varies considerably. Only high quality Mopar® certified filters should be used.

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.

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.

Use only manufacturer approved A/C system PAG compressor oil and refrigerants.

R-1234yf Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) that is endorsed by the Environmental Protection Agency and is an ozone-friendly substance with a low

global-warming potential. The manufacturer recommends that air conditioning service be performed by an authorized dealer using recovery and recycling equipment.

Use only manufacturer approved A/C system PAG compressor oil, and refrigerants.

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.

Remove the access door in the cowl screen by pressing the retaining clips.

Access Door

Unsnap both ends and lift the filter access cover.

Filter Access Cover

Remove the used 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 will indicate this).

Cabin Air Filter

Close the filter access cover.

For the proper maintenance intervals

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.

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.

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.

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.

Lift the wiper arm to raise the wiper blade off of the glass, until the wiper arm is in the full up position.

Windshield Wiper Arm

— Wiper

— Locking Tab 3 — Wiper Arm

To disengage the wiper blade from the wiper arm, flip up the locking tab.

Wiper Locking Assembly

— Wiper

— Locking Tab 3 — Wiper Arm

Slide the wiper blade down towards the base of the wiper arm.

With the wiper blade disengaged, remove the wiper blade from the wiper arm by holding the wiper arm with one hand and separating the wiper blade from the wiper arm with the other hand (move the wiper blade down toward the base of the wiper arm and away from the J hook in the end of the wiper arm).

Removing Wiper From Wiper Arm

— Wiper

— Locking Tab

— Wiper Arm J Hook

Gently lower the wiper arm onto the glass.

Lift the wiper arm off of the glass, until the wiper arm is in the full up position.

Position the wiper blade under the hook on the tip of the wiper arm with the wiper locking tab open.

Insert the receiver bracket on the wiper assembly into the hook on the tip of the arm

through the opening in the wiper blade under the locking tab.

Slide the wiper blade onto the arm until motion stops, then fold down the locking tab to secure.

The locking tab will not snap into place until the blade is properly positioned on the wiper arm hook.

Gently lower the wiper blade onto the glass.

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.

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.

Intentional tampering with emissions control systems can result in civil penalties being assessed against you.

In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning 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 specifications, should be obtained immediately.

To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter 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 idle or malfunc- tioning operating conditions.

NOTE: 8

The vehicle exhaust system may be equipped

with an Electronic Exhaust Valve (EEV) system, if the exhaust system is replaced with after- market products a Malfunction Indicator

Lamp (MIL) will illuminate.

Coolant Checks

Check engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every 12 months (before the onset of freezing weather, where applicable). If the engine coolant is dirty, the system should be drained,

flushed, and refilled with fresh Organic Additive Technology (OAT) coolant (conforming to MS.90032) by an authorized dealer. Check the front of the radiator 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 coolant recovery bottle tubing for brittle rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, and tightness of the connection at the bottle and radiator. Inspect the entire system for leaks. DO NOT REMOVE THE COOLANT PRESSURE CAP WHEN THE COOLING SYSTEM IS HOT.

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 Organic Additive Technology (OAT) coolant (conforming to MS.90032).

For the proper maintenance intervals

For further information page 334. NOTE:

Mixing of engine coolant (antifreeze) other than specified Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant, may result in engine damage and may decrease corrosion protec- tion. OAT engine coolant is different and should not be mixed with Hybrid Organic Additive Technology (HOAT) engine coolant or any “globally compatible” coolant. If a

non-OAT engine coolant 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 products. Do not use addi- tional rust inhibitors or anti-rust products, 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. Use of propylene glycol-based engine coolant is not recommended.

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 10 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km) before replacement. 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 that meets the requirements of the

manufacturer Material Standard MS.90032. When adding engine coolant:

We recommend using Mopar® Antifreeze/ Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile

(240,000 km) Formula OAT that meets the requirements of the manufacturer Material Standard MS.90032.

Mix a minimum solution of 50% OAT engine coolant that meets the requirements of the manufacturer Material Standard MS.90032 and distilled water. Use higher concentra- tions (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 solution. The use of lower quality water will reduce the amount of corro- sion protection in the engine cooling system.

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.

Mixing engine coolant types is not recom- mended and can result in cooling system damage. If HOAT and OAT coolant are mixed in an emergency, have an authorized dealer drain, flush, and refill with OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032) as soon as possible.

The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss

of engine coolant (antifreeze), and to ensure 8

that engine coolant will return to the radiator from the coolant expansion bottle/recovery tank (if equipped).

The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any accumulation of foreign material on the sealing surfaces.

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, clean up any ground spills immediately. If ingested, seek emergency assistance immediately.

The coolant bottle provides a quick visual method for determining that the coolant level is adequate. With the engine off and cold, the level of the engine coolant (antifreeze) in the bottle should be between the ranges indicated on the bottle.

The radiator normally remains completely full, so there is no need to remove the radiator/ coolant pressure cap unless checking for engine coolant freeze point or replacing coolant. Advise your service attendant of this. As long as the engine operating temperature is satisfactory, the coolant bottle need only be checked once a month.

When additional engine coolant is needed to maintain the proper level, only OAT coolant that meets the requirements of manufacturer Material Standard MS.90032 should be added to the coolant bottle. Do not overfill.

When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/ kilometers of operation, you may observe vapor coming from the front of the engine compart- ment. This is normally a result of moisture from rain, snow, or high humidity accumulating on the radiator and being vaporized when the ther- mostat opens, allowing hot engine coolant (anti- freeze) 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 needs to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion bottle must also be protected against freezing.

If frequent engine coolant additions are required, the cooling system should be pres- sure tested for leaks.

Maintain engine coolant concentration 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 cooling performance, poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.

BRAKE SYSTEM

In order to ensure brake system performance, all brake system components should be inspected periodically page 274.

Check the fluid level in the master cylinder immediately if the brake system warning light indicates system failure.

Check the fluid level in the master cylinder when performing underhood services.

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 brake fluid that has been recommended by the manufacturer, and has been kept in a tightly closed container to avoid contamination from foreign matter or moisture.

For further information.

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. Avoid using transmission sealers as they may adversely affect seals.

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 has no dipstick. An authorized dealer can check your transmission fluid level using special service

tools. 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.

Under normal operating conditions, the fluid installed at the factory will provide satisfactory lubrication for the life of the vehicle.

Routine fluid and filter changes are not required. However, change the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for any reason.

It is important to use the proper transmission fluid to ensure optimum transmission performance and life. Use only the manufacturer's specified transmission fluid page 334. 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.

FUSES

The fuses protect electrical systems against excessive current.

When a device does not work, you must check the fuse element inside the blade fuse for a break/melt.

Also, please be aware that when using power outlets for extended periods of time with the engine off may result in vehicle battery discharge.

REAR AXLE

— Fuse Element

Blade Fuses

For normal service, periodic fluid level checks are not required. When the vehicle is serviced for other reasons the exterior surfaces of the axle assembly should be inspected. If gear oil leakage is suspected inspect the fluid level.

— Blade Fuse with a good/functional fuse element

— Blade fuse with a bad/not functional fuse element (blown fuse)

The Front Power Distribution Center is located in the engine compartment. This module contains fuses and relays. Fuse cavity location and descriptions are printed on the inside of the power distribution center cover.

Front Power Distribution Center

* If Equipped
Cavity	Cartridge Fuse	Mini-Fuse	Description
1	–	–	Spare
2	40 Amp Green	–	Radiator Fan #1 (Non 6.2L Supercharged)
3	50 Amp Red	–	Electric Power Steering #1 *
4	30 Amp Pink	–	Starter

* If Equipped
Cavity	Cartridge Fuse	Mini-Fuse	Description
30	–	–	Spare
31	–	25 Amp Clear	Engine Module
32	–	–	Spare
33	–	–	Spare
34	–	25 Amp Clear	ASD Feed #1
35	–	20 Amp Yellow	ASD Feed #2
36	–	10 Amp Red	Anti-Lock Brake Module / Steering Column Lock Module (300*)
37	–	10 Amp Red	Engine Controller
38	–	10 Amp Red	Airbag Module
39	–	10 Amp Red	AC Clutch / EPS / Vacuum Pump
48	–		AWD Module / Front Axle Disconnect *
49	–	–	Spare
50	–	–	Spare
51	–	20 Amp Yellow	Vacuum Pump *
52	–	5 Amp Tan	Adaptive Cruise Control *
53	–	–	Spare

There is also a power distribution center located in the trunk under the spare tire access panel. This center contains fuses and relays. Fuse cavity location and descriptions are printed on the inside of the power distribution center cover.

Rear Power Distribution Center

* If Equipped
Cavity	Cartridge Fuse	Mini-Fuse	Description
F6	40 Amp Green	–	Exterior Lighting #1
F7	40 Amp Green	–	Exterior Lighting #2
F8	30 Amp Pink	–	Interior Lighting
F9	40 Amp Green	–	Power Locks
F10	30 Amp Pink	–	Driver Door Control Module
F11	30 Amp Pink	–	Passenger Door Control Module
F12	–	20 Amp Yellow	Cigar Lighter / IP APO / RR USB (Selectable Fuse)*
F15	40 Amp Green	–	HVAC Blower
F16	20 Amp Blue	–	Left Spot Lamp (Police)
F17	20 Amp Blue	–	Right Spot Lamp (Police)
F18	30 Amp Pink	–	VISM Mod (Police)
F19	–	–	Spare
F20	–	–	Spare
F21	30 Amp Pink	–	Fuel Pump (Non 6.2L ADR)
F22	–	5 Amp Tan	Cyber Gateway Mod
F23	–	10 Amp Red	Fuel Door * / Diagnostic Port
F24	–	10 Amp Red	Integrated Center Stack
F25	–	10 Amp Red	Tire Pressure Monitor
F26	–	15 Amp Blue	Trans Mod (Charger Non- Police/300)

* If Equipped
Cavity	Cartridge Fuse	Mini-Fuse	Description
F53	–	10 Amp Red	HVAC Module / In Vehicle Temperature Sensor
F54	–	–	Spare
F55	–	–	Spare
F56	–	–	Spare
F57	–	–	Spare
F58	–	10 Amp Red	Airbag Module
F59	–	20 Amp Yellow	Adjustable Pedals (Police)
F60	–	–	Spare
F61	–	–	Spare
F62	–	–	Spare
F63	–	–	Spare
F64	–	25 Amp Breaker	Rear Windows (Charger / 300) (Circuit Breaker)
F65	–	10 Amp Red	Airbag Module
F66	–	–	Spare
F67	–	10 Amp Red	Rain and Light Sensor / Sunroof / Inside RR View Mirror / Police Run Acc Relay
F68	–	10 Amp Red	RR USB Timer/ RR Sunshade *
F69	–	–	Spare
F70	–	–	Spare

Replacement Bulbs

All of the interior bulbs are glass wedge base or glass cartridge types. Aluminum base bulbs are not approved and should not be used for replacement.

Exterior Bulbs
Bulb Name	Bulb Number
Low/High Beam Headlamp (Standard Halogen Bi Function Projector)	9005SL+
Low/High Beam Headlamp – High Intensity Discharge (Premium HID Bi Function Projector)	D3S (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Front Park/Turn Lamp	LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Front Fog Lamp – If Equipped	LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Front Side Marker	LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Rear Tail Lamp	LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Rear Stop/Turn Lamp	LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Rear Side Marker	LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
Backup Lamp	LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)
License	LED (Serviced at an authorized dealer)

Front Low/High Beam Headlamp — Models With Halogen Headlamps

See below steps to replace:

1. Open the hood.

3. Turn the bulb counterclockwise, and remove.

6. Reinstall the access cap making sure it is seated into the housing and turn cap clockwise to engage locking lugs. Visually, you should be unable to see the blue O-ring gasket. The access cap should be uniformly seated and you should not be able to pull the access cap off without turning it counterclockwise.

Headlamp Assembly Dust Cap Location

Headlamp Bulb Location

Disconnect the bulb from the socket assembly and install the replacement bulb.

Reinstall the bulb and socket assembly into the headlamp assembly, and then turn it clockwise.

Removal of the air cleaner filter housing may be necessary prior to replacing bulbs in the head- lamp assembly on the driver side of the vehicle.

2. Remove the large dust cap from the headlamp housing by turning it counter- clockwise.

Front Low/High Beam Headlamp — Models With High Intensity Discharge (HID) Head- lamps

The headlamps are a type of high voltage discharge tube. High voltage can remain in the circuit even with the headlamp switch off and the key removed. Because of this, you should not attempt to service a headlamp bulb yourself. If a headlamp bulb fails, take your vehicle to an authorized dealer for service.

On vehicles equipped with HID headlamps, when the headlamps are turned on, there is a blue hue to the lights. This diminishes and becomes more white after approximately

10 seconds, as the system charges.

Front/Rear Side Marker Lamp

The Side Markers use LED lamps that are not serviceable separately. The Side Markers must be replaced as an assembly, see an authorized dealer.

Front Fog Lamp

The Front Fog Lamps use LED sources that are not serviceable separately. The Front Fog Lamp must be replaced as an assembly; see an authorized dealer.

Front Turn Signal Lamps

The Front Park/Turn function is part of the headlamp assembly and use LED lamps that are not serviceable separately. The headlamps must be replaced as an assembly, see an authorized dealer.

Backup Lamps

The Backup Lamps use LED sources that are not serviceable separately. The Applique must be replaced as an assembly; see an authorized dealer.

License Lamp

The License Lamp uses an LED source that is not serviceable separately. The License Lamp must be replaced as an assembly; see an authorized dealer.

Center High Mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL)

The CHMSL Lamp uses LED sources that are not serviceable separately. The CHMSL Lamp must be replaced as an assembly; see an authorized dealer.

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2021 Dodge Charger Owners Manual - VEHICLE MAINTENANCE

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE