Dodge Challenger (2019 year). Manual

Cooling System

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 automatically and may start at any time,
whether the engine is running or not.

• When working near the radiator cooling fan, discon-

nect 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.

Coolant Checks

Check engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every 12
months (before the onset of freezing weather, where appli-
cable). If coolant is dirty or rusty in appearance, the system
should be drained, flushed, and refilled with fresh coolant.
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 con-
denser.

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.

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 Specifica-
tions” for further information.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

365

NOTE:
• Mixing of engine coolant (antifreeze) other than speci-

fied Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant
(antifreeze), may result in engine damage and may
decrease corrosion protection. Organic Additive Tech-
nology (OAT) engine coolant is different and should not
be mixed with Hybrid Organic Additive Technology
(HOAT) engine coolant (antifreeze) 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 inhibi-
tors or antirust 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 propyl-

ene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze). Use of
propylene glycolbased engine coolant (antifreeze) is not
recommended.

• Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant prop-

erly. 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 (anti-
freeze) can be used up to ten 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 (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.

366

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

• 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 (anti-
freeze) 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 prop-

erly. 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 recom-

mended 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 pos-
sible.

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 over-
heated. 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 speci-

fied for your vehicle. Personal injury or engine
damage may result.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

367

Disposal Of Used Coolant

Used ethylene glycol-based coolant (antifreeze) is a regu-
lated 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 contain-
ers 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.

Coolant Level

The coolant bottle provides a quick visual method for
determining that the engine coolant (antifreeze) 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 cap unless checking for
engine coolant (antifreeze) freeze point or replacing engine
coolant (antifreeze). 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 (antifreeze) is needed to
maintain the proper level, it should be added to the coolant
bottle. Do not overfill.

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 (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 (antifreeze)
needs to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion
bottle must also be protected against freezing.

• If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions are

required, the cooling system should be pressure tested
for leaks.

368

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

• Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concentration at a

minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to
MS.90032) and distilled water for proper corrosion pro-
tection of your engine which contains aluminum com-
ponents.

• 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 thermostat. Other designs may result in
unsatisfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance,
poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.

Brake System

In order to assure 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 possi-
bly 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.

Fluid Level Check — Brake Master Cylinder

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 perform-
ing 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.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

369

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 con-
tainer to avoid contamination from foreign matter or
moisture.

Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica-
tions” for further information.

WARNING!

• Use only manufacturer’s recommended brake fluid.

Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” 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.

(Continued)

WARNING! (Continued)

• To avoid contamination from foreign matter or mois-

ture, use only new brake fluid or fluid that has been
in a tightly closed container. Keep the master cylin-
der reservoir 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 brak-
ing, 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.

370

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Clutch Hydraulic System — Manual Transmission
(If Equipped)

The clutch hydraulic system is fed by a segregated volume of
fluid within the brake system master cylinder reservoir. In
the event of leakage or wear, use only the manufacturer’s
recommended brake fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants”
in “Technical Specifications” for further information.

Manual Transmission — If Equipped

Fluid Level Check

Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug on the left
side of the transmission. The fluid level should be 1/4 inch
(6.4mm) below the bottom of the fill hole. Add fluid, if
necessary, to maintain the proper level. Refer to “Fluids
And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications” for further
information.

CAUTION!

Using a transmission fluid other than the manufactur-
er’s recommended fluid may cause deterioration in
transmission shift quality and/or damage to the trans-
mission. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Techni-
cal Specifications” for fluid specifications.

Change Transmission Fluid

If contaminated with water, change the fluid immediately.
See your authorized dealer for service.

Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the
proper maintenance intervals.

Automatic Transmission — If Equipped

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 recom-
mended fluid.

NOTE:

No chemical flushes should be used in any trans-

mission; only the approved lubricant should be used.

CAUTION!

Using a transmission fluid other than the manufactur-
er’s recommended fluid may cause deterioration in

(Continued)

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

371

CAUTION! (Continued)

transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Techni-
cal Specifications” for fluid specifications.

Special Additives

The manufacturer strongly recommends against using any
special additives in the transmission. Automatic Transmis-
sion Fluid (ATF) is an engineered product and its perfor-
mance may be impaired by supplemental additives. There-
fore, do not add any fluid additives to the transmission.
Avoid using transmission sealers as they may adversely
affect seals.

CAUTION!

Do not use chemical flushes in your transmission as
the chemicals can damage your transmission compo-
nents. Such damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.

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 transmis-
sion 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 im-
proper fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.

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.

Fluid And Filter Changes

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 contami-
nated (with water, etc.), or if the transmission is disas-
sembled for any reason.

372

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

All Wheel Drive (AWD) — If Equipped

The all wheel drive system consists of a transfer case and
front differential. The exterior surface of these components
should be inspected for evidence of fluid leaks. Confirmed
leaks should be repaired as soon as possible.

The transfer case fluid fill/inspection plug is located in the
middle of the rear housing. To inspect the transfer case
fluid level, remove the fill/inspection plug. The fluid level
should be even with the bottom of the hole. Use this plug
to add fluid as required.

The front differential fill plug is located on the outer cover
near the halfshaft attachment. To inspect the differential
fluid level, remove the fill plug. The fluid level should be
even with or slightly below the bottom of the hole.

Fluid Changes

Refer to “Scheduled Servicing” in “Servicing And Mainte-
nance” for the proper maintenance intervals.

Rear Axle

Fluid Level Check

Checking the fluid level while the vehicle is on level
ground and has been stationary for 15 minutes will im-
prove the accuracy of the fluid level reading.

Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug on the axle.
The fluid level should be 1-2.5 mm below the fill plug. Add
fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper level. Refer to
“Fluids And Lubricants” in

⬙Servicing And Maintenance”

for further information.

Change Axle Fluid

Refer to “Scheduled Servicing” in “Servicing And Mainte-
nance” for the proper maintenance intervals.

RAISING THE VEHICLE

In the case where it is necessary to raise the vehicle, go to
an authorized dealer or service station.

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

373

TIRES

Tire Safety Information
Tire safety information will cover aspects of the following
information: Tire Markings, Tire Identification Numbers,
Tire Terminology and Definitions, Tire Pressures, and Tire
Loading.

Tire Markings

NOTE:
• P (Passenger) — Metric tire sizing is based on U.S.

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 U.S.

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 U.S. design stan-

dards and it begins with the tire diameter molded into
the sidewall. Example: 31x10.5 R15 LT.

Tire Markings

1 — U.S. DOT Safety
Standards Code (TIN)

4 — Maximum Load

2 — Size Designation

5 — Maximum Pressure

3 — Service Description

6 — Treadwear, Traction
and Temperature Grades

374

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 U.S. design standards, or

ⴖ....blank....ⴖ = Passenger car tire based on European design standards, or
LT

= Light truck tire based on U.S. design standards, or

T or S

= Temporary spare tire or

= 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)

= 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

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

375

EXAMPLE:

= Speed Symbol

– A symbol indicating the range of speeds at which a tire can carry a load corresponding to its load index under cer-

tain operating conditions

– The maximum speed corresponding to the speed symbol should only be achieved under specified operating condi-

tions (i.e., tire pressure, vehicle loading, road conditions, and posted speed limits)

Load Identification:
Absence of the following load identification symbols on the sidewall of the tire indicates a Standard Load (SL) tire:

• XL = Extra load (or reinforced) tire, or

• LL = Light load tire or

• C, D, E, F, G = Load range associated with the maximum load a tire can carry at a specified pressure
Maximum Load

– Maximum load indicates the maximum load this tire is designed to carry

Maximum Pressure

– Maximum pressure indicates the maximum permissible cold tire inflation pressure for this tire

376

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Tire Identification Number (TIN)
The TIN may be found on one or both sides of the tire;
however, the date code may only be on one side. Tires with
white sidewalls will have the full TIN, including the date
code, located on the white sidewall side of the tire. Look for

the TIN on the outboard side of black sidewall tires as
mounted on the vehicle. If the TIN is not found on the
outboard side, then you will find it on the inboard side of
the tire.

EXAMPLE:

DOT MA L9 ABCD 0301

DOT

= Department of Transportation

– This symbol certifies that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation tire safety standards

and is approved for highway use

= Code representing the tire manufacturing location (two digits)

= Code representing the tire size (two digits)

ABCD

= Code used by the tire manufacturer (one to four digits)

= Number representing the week in which the tire was manufactured (two digits)

– 03 means the 3rd week
01

= Number representing the year in which the tire was manufactured (two digits)

– 01 means the year 2001
– Prior to July 2000, tire manufacturers were only required to have one number to represent the year in which the

tire was manufactured. Example: 031 could represent the 3rd week of 1981 or 1991

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

377

Tire Terminology And Definitions

Term

Definition

B-Pillar

The vehicle B-Pillar is the structural member of the body located be-
hind the front door.

Cold Tire Inflation Pressure

Cold tire inflation pressure is defined as the tire pressure after the
vehicle has not been driven for at least three hours, or driven less
than 1 mile (1.6 km) after sitting for a minimum of three hours. In-
flation pressure is measured in units of PSI (pounds per square inch)
or kPa (kilopascals).

Maximum Inflation Pressure

The maximum inflation pressure is the maximum permissible cold
tire inflation pressure for this tire. The maximum inflation pressure is
molded into the sidewall.

Recommended Cold Tire Inflation Pressure

Vehicle manufacturer’s recommended cold tire inflation pressure as
shown on the tire placard.

Tire Placard

A label permanently attached to the vehicle describing the vehicle’s
loading capacity, the original equipment tire sizes and the recom-
mended cold tire inflation pressures.

378

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Tire Loading And Tire Pressure

NOTE:

The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed on

the driver’s side B-Pillar or the rear edge of the driver’s
side door.

Check the inflation pressure of each tire, including the
spare tire (if equipped), at least monthly and inflate to the
recommended pressure for your vehicle.

Example Tire Placard Location (Door)

Example Tire Placard Location (B-Pillar)

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

379

Tire And Loading Information Placard

This placard tells you important information about the:

1. Number of people that can be carried in the vehicle.

2. Total weight your vehicle can carry.

3. Tire size designed for your vehicle.

4. Cold tire inflation pressures for the front, rear, and spare

tires.

Loading

The vehicle maximum load on the tire must not exceed the
load carrying capacity of the tire on your vehicle. You will
not exceed the tire’s load carrying capacity if you adhere to
the loading conditions, tire size, and cold tire inflation
pressures specified on the Tire and Loading Information
placard in “Vehicle Loading” in the “Starting And Operat-
ing” section of this manual.

NOTE:

Under a maximum loaded vehicle condition, gross

axle weight ratings (GAWRs) for the front and rear axles
must not be exceeded.

For further information on GAWRs, vehicle loading, and
trailer towing, refer to “Vehicle Loading” in the “Starting
And Operating” section of this manual.

To determine the maximum loading conditions of your
vehicle, locate the statement “The combined weight of
occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or
XXX lbs” on the Tire and Loading Information placard. The
combined weight of occupants, cargo/luggage and trailer
tongue weight (if applicable) should never exceed the
weight referenced here.

Tire And Loading Information Placard

380

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Dodge Challenger (2019 year). Manual - part 23