Dodge 2008 Dakota - Manual (Page 240)

Coolant Pressure Cap
The coolant pressure cap must be fully tightened to
prevent loss of coolant, and to insure that coolant will
return to the radiator from the coolant reserve tank.
The pressure cap should be inspected and cleaned if there
is any accumulation of foreign material on the sealing
surfaces.
WARNING!
The warning words “DO NOT OPEN HOT” on the
coolant pressure cap are a safety precaution. Heat
causes pressure to build up in the cooling system. To
prevent scalding or injury, do not remove the pres-
sure cap when the system is hot or under pressure.
Coolant Level
The coolant reserve system provides a quick visual
method for determining that the coolant level is ad-
equate. With the engine idling, and warmed to normal
operating temperature, remove the cap from the over-
flow bottle, remove the dipstick and wipe the excess
coolant from it. Reinsert the dipstick and remove. Ob-
serve the dipstick checking the holes along the stem for
coolant. Check the coolant level whenever the hood is
raised.
240 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE