2004 Dodge Caravan Owner's Manual - Page 328

328 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 5. Remove the dipstick and determine if the fluid is hot or warm. Hot fluid is approximately 180°F (82°C), which is the normal operating temperature after the vehicle has been driven at least 15 miles (24 km). The fluid cannot be comfortably held between the finger tips. Cold is when the fluid is below 80°F (27°C). 6. Wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert until seated. Remove dipstick and note reading. a. If the fluid is hot, the reading should be in the crosshatched area marked "HOT" (between the upper two holes in the dipstick). b. If the fluid is cold, the fluid level should be between the lower two holes in the area marked "COLD". If the fluid level indicates low, add sufficient fluid to bring to the proper level. CAUTION! Do not overfill. Dirt and water in the transmission can cause serious damage. To prevent dirt and water from entering the transmission after checking or replenishing fluid, make certain that the dipstick cap is reseated properly. Fluid and Filter Changes Automatic transmission fluid should be changed on all transmissions as follows: Normal Usage - No change necessary Severe Usage (fluid and filter) - 60,000 miles (96 000 km) Severe Usage is defined as: • Police, taxi, limousine, commercial type operation, or trailer towing where the vehicle is driven regularly for more than 45 minutes of continuous operation.