Jeep Grand Cherokee, there’s an app for that

Chrysler said on Thursday that it will release its owner’s manuals as smartphone apps. This is in addition to replacing its hard-copy owner’s manuals with DVDs and small quick-reference guides, something it did last year.

The first iPhone manual will be available on June 19, for the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Blackberry and Android versions will follow. As of now, only the United States will get the apps, but plans to expand to Canada and Europe are in the works.

The app will include the owner’s manual in its entirety, along with product literature, photos and videos, according to Pietro Gorlier, CEO of Mopar. It won’t include financial features such as bill paying, and it won’t have games or other entertainment features.

You won’t need to buy a new Chrysler to get the app; it will be available free to everyone. Chrysler expects the move will increase dealership and Web traffic.

The app also opens up other opportunities for Chrysler. It can connect users to social-networking sites or other specialty sites about the vehicle. Customers can look through Mopar performance parts. Chrysler also hasn’t ruled out the possibility of using the app to check the vehicle’s diagnostics, alerting occupants when there is a problem.

Chrysler’s current focus is on new vehicles, but older manuals may be on the way if there is interest. Following the Jeep app, Ram truck, Dodge, Fiat and other Chrysler apps will be released.

By Jake Lingeman