2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser Owner Manual - Page 334

332 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE CAUTION! Do not allow petroleum-based fluid to contaminate the brake fluid; all brake seal components could be damaged causing partial or complete brake failure. Use only brake fluid that has been in a tightly closed container to avoid contamination from foreign matter. Automatic Transaxle The automatic transaxle and differential assembly are contained within a single housing. 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 the fluid. Fluid Level Check Use the following procedure to check the automatic transaxle fluid level properly: 1. Park the vehicle on level ground. 2. Run the engine at curb idle speed for a minimum of 60 seconds. 3. Apply the parking brake fully. 4. Place the shift lever momentarily in each gear position, ending with the shift lever in PARK. 5. Wipe the area around the dipstick clean to eliminate the possibility of dirt entering the transaxle. 6. Remove the dipstick and determine if the fluid is hot or cold. Hot fluid is approximately 180°F (82° C), which is the normal operating temperature after the vehicle is