Dodge, Chrysler Get Smartphone Apps

The new frontier in automotive gadgetry is smartphone integration. Over the past two years, we’ve moved beyond the relatively simple cell phone contact lists and iPod playlists to applications that can control a car. GM’s iPhone and android apps let you unlock your car, find a parking spot and check your oil levels, and Ford lets you control Pandora and Stitcher Smart Radio from your cell phone.

Don’t expect the same sort of functionality from Chrysler’s just-announced app, but it could come in handy, especially on the road. It’s probably even more helpful now that Chrysler has ditched owner’s manuals for DVDs and short user guides.

Starting with the 2011 Dodge Journey, Dodge Avenger, Dodge Durango and Dodge Charger, Chrysler has added a free smartphone app that gives access to the car’s owner’s manual and other services from a smart device. A 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan app is coming soon, too.

The application is essentially a mobile user’s manual. It comes with all the existing user guides that also are available on DVDs. This includes operating instructions, vehicle maintenance schedules, warning lights, and control and warrant information.

You can also contact customer care and 24-hour roadside assistance through the application.

This application has actually been around for a while. The first Chrysler vehicle to get it was the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee way back in June. It was closely followed by an app for the Ram Truck series (1500-3500).

The 2011 Chrysler 200, 2011 Chrysler Town & Country, 2011 Chrysler 300 vehicle apps were released on Jan 13.

Chrysler says the apps are available for android users, but there are variants for iPhone and Blackberry users, too.