2005 Dodge Stratus Owner's Manual - Page 229

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 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 transmission 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 replenishing 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 conditions: 7