2005 Dodge Stratus Owner Manual Coupe - Page 204

204 STARTING AND DRIVING over curbs or parking stop blocks. Always use caution when traveling up or down sharp inclines as your bumper may contact the road surface. 2. Maintain specified tire inflation pressures. Replace tires before they are excessively worn. 3. If you plan to drive in another country, comply with the vehicle registration laws and confirm the availability of the correct fuel. OPERATION DURING COLD WEATHER 1. Check the battery, including terminals and cables. During extremely cold weather, the battery capacity will decrease. Also, the battery power level may drop because more power is needed for cold starting and operation. Before driving the vehicle, check to see if the engine runs at the proper speed and if the headlights are at their usual intensity. Charge or replace the battery if necessary. During cold weather, it is possible that a discharged battery could freeze. WARNING! The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas. Any spark or flame can cause the battery to explode, which could seriously injury or kill you. Always wear protective clothes and a face shield when doing battery maintenance, or let a skilled technician do it. 2. Manual transaxles may be more difficult to shift during cold weather operation. This is normal and shift effort will become easier as the transaxle reaches a normal operating temperature. Maintain low-speed operation at first to allow the transaxle oil to be distributed to all lubrication points. 3. Check the engine antifreeze. If there is a shortage of coolant due to leakage or engine overheating, add high-quality ethylene glycol antifreeze and water. The recommended ratio is about 50% water and 50% anti-freeze. This ratio provides adequate corrosion, boiling, and freeze protection.