2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Owner's Manual - Page 285

Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). If it's colder than 50°F (10°C), you may have to drive longer. Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: Checking the Fluid Level Prepare your 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). • 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). 3400 V6 Engine 3800 V6 Engine • Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes. The transaxle fluid dipstick handle is the black loop near the rear of the engine compartment, toward the center. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location. 1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. 2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and then pull it back out again. 5-29