Dodge Charger: VEHICLE MAINTENANCE / Accessory Drive Belt Inspection

Dodge Charger 2011-2026 Owner's Manual / SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE / VEHICLE MAINTENANCE / Accessory Drive Belt Inspection

WARNING!

Do not attempt to inspect an accessory drive belt with vehicle running.
When working near the radiator cooling fan, disconnect the fan motor lead. The fan is temperature controlled and can start at any time regardless of ignition mode. You could be injured by the moving fan blades.
You can be badly injured working on or around a motor vehicle. Only do service work for which you have the knowledge and the proper equipment. If you have any doubt about your ability to perform a service job, take your vehicle to a compe- tent mechanic.

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.

Dodge Charger. Accessory Drive Belt Inspection

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.

Air Conditioner Maintenance

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...

Body Lubrication

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...

Other information:

Dodge Charger 2011-2026 Owner's Manual: Manual Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column — If Equipped

This feature allows you to tilt the steering column upward or downward. It also allows you to lengthen or shorten the steering column. The tilt/telescoping control is located below the steering wheel at the end of the steering column. To unlock the steering column, push the control downward (toward the floor)...

Dodge Charger 2011-2026 Owner's Manual: Adding Washer Fluid

The windshield washer fluid reservoir is located in the front of the engine compartment. Be sure to check the fluid level at regular intervals. Fill the reservoir with windshield washer solvent (not radiator antifreeze) and operate the system for a few seconds to flush out the residual water...