Dodge 2005 JR41 Stratus - Manual (Page 229)

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).
• If the fluid is hot (180°F / 82°C), the reading should be
in the cross hatched area marked ”HOT” (between the
upper two holes in the dipstick).
• If the fluid level shows low, add sufficient transmis-
sion fluid to bring to the proper level.
CAUTION!
Do not overfill. Dirt and water in the transaxle can
cause serious damage. To prevent dirt and water
from entering the transaxle after checking or replen-
ishing fluid, make certain that the dipstick cap is
seated properly.
Fluid and Filter Changes
Automatic transmission fluid and filter should be
changed as follows:
Maintenance schedule “A” — No change necessary.
Maintenance schedule “B” — Every 60,000 miles (96 000
km) change fluid and filter under the following condi-
tions:
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 229
7