Dodge 2004 Stratus Sedan - Manual (Page 212)

Selection of Lubricant
It is important that the proper lubricant is used in the
transmission to assure optimum transmission perfor-
mance. Use only manufacturers recommended transmis-
sion fluid, refer to Recommended Fluids, Lubricants and
Genuine Parts for correct fluid type. It is important that
the transmission fluid be maintained at the prescribed
level using the recommended fluid.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turers recommended fluid may cause deterioration
in transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturers recommended fluid will result in
more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts
for correct fluid type.
Procedure For Checking Fluid Level
The fluid level in the automatic transaxle should be
checked whenever the vehicle is serviced. Operation with
an improper fluid level will greatly reduce the life of the
transaxle and of the fluid.
To properly check the automatic transaxle fluid level, the
following procedure must be used:
• The vehicle must be on level ground.
• The engine should be running at curb idle speed for a
minimum of 60 seconds.
• Fully apply parking brake.
• Place the gear selector momentarily in each gear
position ending with the lever in P (PARK).
• Wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert until seated.
Remove dipstick and note reading.
• If the fluid is cold (80°F / 27°C), the reading should be
in the cross hatched area marked “COLD” (between
the lower two holes in the dipstick).
212 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE