2004 Cadillac DeVille Owner's Manual - Page 302

How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage the transaxle. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too little fluid could cause the transaxle to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check the transaxle fluid. Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving: To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180° F to 200° F (82° C to 93° C). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50° F (10° C). If it is colder than 50° F (10° C), you may have to drive longer. Checking the Fluid Level Prepare you vehicle as follows: • Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. • With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). • When outside temperatures are above 90° F (32° C) • With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P). • At high speed for quite a while. • In heavy traffic - especially in hot weather. • While pulling a trailer. • Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes. 5-22