2013 dodge avenger user manual
This manual details the 2013 Dodge Avenger’s features, operation, and maintenance, covering standard and optional equipment, even those no longer available․
Chrysler Group LLC retains the right to implement changes; this guide illustrates vehicle functionality for owners and provides essential operational guidance․
Accessing the full owner’s manual, either online or as a downloadable PDF, ensures comprehensive understanding of your vehicle’s capabilities and proper usage․
Overview of the Vehicle
The 2013 Dodge Avenger represents a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality within the mid-size sedan segment․ Designed with a focus on driver and passenger comfort, the Avenger offers a spacious interior and a range of features intended to enhance the overall driving experience․ This vehicle caters to individuals and families seeking a versatile and reliable transportation solution․
Available in several trim levels, the 2013 Avenger provides options to suit diverse preferences and budgets․ Standard features typically include a comfortable cabin, user-friendly controls, and a suite of safety technologies․ Optional upgrades can encompass advanced infotainment systems, premium audio, and enhanced interior appointments․
The 2013 model year Avenger incorporates both standard and optional equipment, with Chrysler Group LLC reserving the right to make modifications․ This user manual aims to comprehensively cover all features, even those that may no longer be available on current models, ensuring a complete resource for all owners․
Purpose of the User Manual
This 2013 Dodge Avenger user manual serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding and operating your vehicle effectively and safely․ It’s designed to familiarize you with all features, both standard and optional, ensuring you can maximize your driving enjoyment and vehicle longevity․ The manual details the operation of equipment as it was originally designed and available․
It illustrates and describes the functionality of various systems, from basic controls to advanced technologies like the Uconnect infotainment system․ Importantly, it also covers features that may no longer be offered or were not included in your specific vehicle configuration․
Chrysler Group LLC reserves the right to make changes, and this manual reflects the information available at the time of publication․ By carefully reviewing this manual, you’ll gain valuable insights into maintaining, troubleshooting, and safely operating your 2013 Dodge Avenger․
Vehicle Features & Controls
Explore the 2013 Avenger’s dashboard, seating, steering wheel, and Uconnect system; this section details how to utilize all controls for optimal driving․
Dashboard Layout & Instrument Cluster
The 2013 Dodge Avenger’s dashboard is designed for clear visibility and intuitive operation․ Key indicators within the instrument cluster provide crucial vehicle information at a glance․ These include the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge․ Warning lights illuminate to alert the driver to potential issues, such as low oil pressure or a check engine condition – consult the manual for specific light meanings․
Additional displays may show trip information, average fuel economy, and outside temperature․ The driver information display, if equipped, can be customized to show preferred data․ Familiarize yourself with the location of all controls, including those for the climate control system, audio system, and vehicle settings․ Understanding the dashboard layout enhances safety and provides a more enjoyable driving experience․ Regularly check the instrument cluster for any illuminated warning lights and address them promptly․
Seating & Interior Adjustments
The 2013 Dodge Avenger offers adjustable seating to ensure driver and passenger comfort․ Manual or power seats allow for fore/aft positioning, seat height adjustment, and backrest angle control․ Utilize these adjustments to find an optimal driving position, promoting safety and reducing fatigue․ Head restraints should be positioned to support the head and neck, minimizing injury risk in the event of a collision․
Interior adjustments also include steering wheel tilt and telescopic functions, allowing drivers to personalize steering feel and reach․ Familiarize yourself with the location of all adjustment controls for both front and rear seats․ Proper seating and steering wheel positioning are crucial for maintaining control of the vehicle and maximizing comfort during long drives․ Ensure all adjustments are securely locked before operating the vehicle․
Steering Wheel Controls
The 2013 Dodge Avenger’s steering wheel integrates several controls for convenient operation while driving․ These typically include audio system controls – volume, track selection, and radio station tuning – allowing adjustments without taking your hands off the wheel․ Cruise control functions are also often integrated, enabling speed maintenance on highways and during long journeys․
Additional controls may include phone operation buttons for hands-free calling, and access to vehicle information displayed on the instrument cluster․ Familiarize yourself with the location and function of each control to ensure safe and efficient use․ Refer to the infotainment system section for detailed information on phone pairing and audio system features․ Always prioritize maintaining focus on the road while utilizing these controls․
Infotainment System – Uconnect
The 2013 Dodge Avenger features the Uconnect infotainment system, offering a range of features accessible through a touchscreen display․ Uconnect allows control of audio sources – AM/FM radio, CD player, auxiliary input, and USB connectivity – as well as Bluetooth integration for hands-free calling and audio streaming․ Navigation functionality may be included, providing turn-by-turn directions․
The system supports smartphone integration, enabling access to apps and services․ Explore the menus to customize settings, adjust audio preferences, and manage connected devices․ Refer to the Uconnect owner’s manual for detailed instructions on pairing phones, utilizing navigation, and accessing advanced features․ Regular software updates may be available to enhance system performance and add new functionalities․
Operating Instructions
This section provides detailed guidance on safely operating your 2013 Dodge Avenger, covering starting, driving, transmission use, and essential fluid checks․
Follow these instructions for optimal performance․
Starting & Stopping the Engine
To start the engine, ensure the vehicle is in Park or Neutral, firmly press the brake pedal, and turn the ignition key to the START position, releasing it once the engine ignites․
Avoid prolonged cranking; if the engine doesn’t start after a few attempts, wait a minute before trying again to prevent starter damage․
For stopping the engine, bring the vehicle to a complete stop, shift the transmission into Park, and turn the ignition key to the OFF position․
Always engage the parking brake, especially on inclines, to prevent unintended movement․ Remember to remove the key to secure the vehicle․
Do not turn off the engine while driving, as this will disable power steering and potentially other critical systems, increasing the risk of an accident․
Driving Modes (if applicable)
The 2013 Dodge Avenger may feature selectable driving modes designed to optimize performance and efficiency based on driving conditions․ These modes, if equipped, typically include options like “Normal,” “Sport,” and potentially “Winter” or “Eco” modes․
“Normal” mode provides a balanced driving experience for everyday use․ “Sport” mode enhances throttle response and steering feel for a more engaging drive․
“Winter” mode adjusts traction control settings to provide increased stability on slippery surfaces․ “Eco” mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by modifying engine and transmission behavior․
To select a driving mode, consult the vehicle’s infotainment system or a dedicated selector switch, if present․ The selected mode will be indicated on the instrument cluster․
Understanding and utilizing these modes can significantly improve your driving experience and vehicle performance․
Transmission Operation
The 2013 Dodge Avenger typically features a six-speed automatic transmission designed for smooth and efficient operation․ The gear selector is usually located on the center console and offers positions for Park (P), Reverse (R), Neutral (N), Drive (D), and potentially a manual shift mode․
To shift gears, simply move the selector lever to the desired position․ The transmission automatically selects the appropriate gear based on vehicle speed and throttle input in Drive mode․
Manual shift mode, if equipped, allows the driver to manually select gears using the selector lever or steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters․
Avoid shifting while the vehicle is under heavy acceleration or deceleration․ Regular transmission fluid checks and maintenance, as outlined in the maintenance schedule, are crucial for optimal performance and longevity․
Fueling & Fluid Checks
For fueling, the 2013 Dodge Avenger utilizes unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher․ The fuel filler door is typically located on the driver’s side of the vehicle․ Always ensure the fuel cap is securely tightened after refueling to prevent fuel vapor emissions․
Regular fluid checks are vital for maintaining vehicle health․ These include engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid; Check fluid levels using the dipsticks or reservoir markings, referring to the ‘Fluid Specifications & Capacities’ section for correct types․
Low fluid levels can indicate leaks or increased consumption, requiring immediate attention․ Inspect for any visible leaks around fluid reservoirs and hoses․ Maintaining proper fluid levels ensures optimal performance and prevents potential damage․
Maintenance & Service
This section outlines the recommended maintenance schedule, fluid specifications, tire information, and pressure for your 2013 Dodge Avenger, ensuring longevity․
Following these guidelines will help maintain optimal performance and reliability throughout the vehicle’s service life, as detailed in the manual․
Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Maintaining your 2013 Dodge Avenger requires adherence to a specific schedule to ensure optimal performance and longevity․ The owner’s manual details these intervals, categorized by mileage or time, whichever comes first․
Regular inspections are crucial, including checks of fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure and tread depth, and visual inspections of belts, hoses, and lights․
Oil changes are paramount, typically recommended every 7,500 to 10,000 miles with the appropriate oil type specified in the manual․ Filter replacements accompany oil changes․ Other key services include air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement (at specified intervals), and brake pad/rotor inspections and replacements as needed․
More extensive services, like transmission fluid changes and coolant flushes, are scheduled at higher mileage intervals․ Consult the manual for the precise schedule tailored to your driving conditions – severe driving (towing, stop-and-go traffic) may necessitate more frequent maintenance․
Fluid Specifications & Capacities
Ensuring proper fluid levels with the correct specifications is vital for your 2013 Dodge Avenger’s performance․ The owner’s manual provides a comprehensive list of required fluids and their corresponding capacities․
Engine oil requires a specific viscosity grade (e․g․, 5W-20 or 5W-30 – confirm in the manual) and meets API SN or higher standards․ The engine oil capacity is approximately 5․1 quarts (4․8 liters) with filter․
Coolant should be a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water, meeting Chrysler MS-9224 specifications․ The cooling system capacity is around 12․5 quarts (11․8 liters)․
Transmission fluid (automatic) requires ATF+4 fluid․ Capacity varies depending on the transmission model․ Brake fluid must meet DOT 3 specifications․ Power steering fluid should be AS68064․ Windshield washer fluid is typically a water-based solution․ Always refer to the manual for precise specifications and capacities․
Tire Information & Pressure
Maintaining correct tire pressure is crucial for safety, handling, and fuel efficiency in your 2013 Dodge Avenger․ The recommended tire pressure is typically found on a sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb, not on the tire sidewall․
Standard tire size varies depending on the trim level, but common sizes include 215/60R16 or 225/50R17․ Always replace tires with the same size and load rating as specified in the owner’s manual․
Regularly inspect tires for wear, damage, and proper inflation․ Recommended cold tire pressure is generally around 32 PSI for most Avenger models, but always verify with the doorjamb sticker․
Tire rotation is recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to ensure even wear․ The manual details the proper rotation pattern․ Ignoring tire maintenance can lead to uneven wear and compromised safety․
Safety Features & Systems
The 2013 Avenger incorporates vital safety systems like airbags, ABS, and ESC, designed to protect occupants during collisions and maintain vehicle control․
Understanding these features, detailed in this manual, is essential for maximizing safety and responding appropriately in emergency driving situations․
Airbag System
The 2013 Dodge Avenger is equipped with an advanced airbag system designed to provide occupant protection in the event of a collision․ This system includes front airbags for both driver and passenger, as well as side-curtain airbags for enhanced protection during side impacts․
Important Safety Information: Airbags are supplemental restraints and are most effective when used in conjunction with seat belts․ Always ensure all occupants are properly restrained․ The airbag system is designed to deploy under specific impact conditions, and deployment may not occur in all collisions․
System Components: The system includes sensors that detect the severity and type of impact, an airbag control module (ACM) that processes sensor data, and the airbags themselves․ Caution: Never attempt to repair or modify the airbag system․ Improper servicing can lead to unintended deployment or failure․ Refer to a qualified technician for any concerns regarding the airbag system․ This manual provides a general overview; always prioritize professional service for this critical safety feature․
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
The 2013 Dodge Avenger features an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) designed to help maintain steering control during hard braking situations and reduce the risk of wheel lockup․ ABS works by rapidly modulating brake pressure to individual wheels, preventing them from skidding and allowing the driver to steer while braking․
Normal Operation: During normal braking, the ABS may not be noticeable․ However, if you encounter a slippery surface or need to brake hard, you may feel a pulsing sensation in the brake pedal – this is normal and indicates the ABS is functioning correctly․ Maintain firm and steady pressure on the brake pedal during ABS activation․
Warning Light: If the ABS warning light illuminates on the instrument cluster, it indicates a system malfunction․ In this case, the vehicle will still brake normally, but the ABS function will be disabled․ Have the system inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible․ Do not attempt to diagnose or repair the ABS system yourself․
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
The 2013 Dodge Avenger is equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a system designed to assist in maintaining directional control during challenging driving conditions, such as slippery roads or sudden maneuvers․ ESC monitors the vehicle’s direction and compares it to the driver’s intended path․
How it Works: If ESC detects a loss of control, it selectively applies braking force to individual wheels and may reduce engine power to help steer the vehicle back onto the intended course․ You may feel a slight pulsation in the brake pedal or hear the ESC system activate – this is normal operation․
System Indicator: A flashing ESC indicator light on the instrument panel signifies the system is actively working to maintain stability․ A continuously illuminated ESC light indicates a system malfunction; in this case, have the system inspected by a qualified service technician promptly; ESC enhances safety, but it doesn’t eliminate the need for cautious driving․
Troubleshooting & Common Issues
This section provides guidance for jump-starting procedures and basic diagnostic checks to address frequently encountered problems with your 2013 Dodge Avenger․
Refer to these instructions for initial assessments before seeking professional service for more complex vehicle concerns․
Jump Starting Procedures
Caution: Jump starting can be hazardous; follow these procedures carefully to avoid injury or damage to your 2013 Dodge Avenger’s electrical system․
First, position a vehicle with a fully charged battery close enough for the jumper cables to reach, ensuring the vehicles do not touch․ Turn off both vehicles’ ignitions․
Connect the red (+) cable to the positive terminal of the discharged battery, then to the positive terminal of the good battery․ Next, connect the black (-) cable to the negative terminal of the good battery, and finally, to a solid, unpainted metal surface on the Avenger’s engine block – not the negative terminal of the discharged battery;
Start the vehicle with the good battery and let it run for a few minutes․ Then, attempt to start the Avenger․ If it doesn’t start immediately, wait a few more minutes and try again․ Once started, carefully disconnect the cables in the reverse order of connection․
Important: If the Avenger repeatedly fails to start, or if you notice any unusual noises or smells, consult a qualified mechanic․
Basic Diagnostic Checks
Regular checks can help identify minor issues before they become major repairs on your 2013 Dodge Avenger․ Begin with a visual inspection under the hood, looking for any leaks, damaged wires, or loose connections․
Check fluid levels – oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid – ensuring they are within the recommended ranges․ Pay attention to the instrument cluster for warning lights; these indicate potential problems requiring attention․
Listen for unusual noises while the engine is running, such as knocking, hissing, or squealing․ Observe the exhaust for excessive smoke, which could signal engine issues․ A simple tire pressure check is also crucial for safety and fuel efficiency․
