Jeep Patriot 2011, Operating Information Manual

Page: 158 / 268

WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced power
steering assist could pose a safety risk to
yourself and others. Service should be ob-
tained as soon as possible.
CAUTION!
Prolonged operation of the steering system at
the end of the steering wheel travel will in-
crease the steering fluid temperature and it
should be avoided when possible. Damage to
the power steering pump may occur.
Power Steering Fluid Check
Checking the power steering fluid level at a
defined service interval is not required. The
fluid should only be checked if a leak is sus-
pected, abnormal noises are apparent, and/or
the system is not functioning as anticipated.
Coordinate inspection efforts through an autho-
rized dealer.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your power
steering system as the chemicals can dam-
age your power steering components. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
WARNING!
Fluid level should be checked on a level
surface and with the engine off to prevent
injury from moving parts and to ensure accu-
rate fluid level reading. Do not overfill. Use
only manufacturer’s recommended power
steering fluid.
If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper
indicated level. With a clean cloth, wipe any
spilled fluid from all surfaces. Refer to “Fluids,
Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in “Maintaining
Your Vehicle” for further information.
PARKING BRAKE
Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the
parking brake is fully applied. Also, be certain
to leave an automatic transmission in PARK, or
manual transmission in REVERSE or first gear.
The parking brake lever is located in the center
console. To apply the parking brake, pull the
lever up as firmly as possible. To release the
parking brake, pull the lever up slightly, press
the center button, then lower the lever com-
pletely.
When the parking brake is applied with the
ignition switch in the ON position, the “Brake
Warning Light” in the instrument cluster will
illuminate.
Parking Brake
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