2011 Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab Owner's Manual - Page 260

10-14 Vehicle Care reference. Let the engine run at idle for five minutes if outside temperatures are 10°C (50°F) or more. If it is colder than 10°C (50°F), the engine may have to idle longer. Should the fluid level be low during this cold check, check the fluid hot before adding fluid. Checking the fluid hot gives a more accurate reading of the fluid level. Checking the Fluid Level To prepare the vehicle: 1. Park the vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. 2. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in P (Park). 3. With 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 P (Park). 4. Let the engine run at idle for three minutes or more. The automatic transmission dipstick handle with this symbol on it is located in the engine compartment on the passenger side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 10‑6 for more information on location. 2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds, and pull it back out again. Then, without shutting off the engine: 1. Flip the handle up and then pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transmission fluid level if the vehicle has been driven: . When outside temperatures are above 32°C (90°F). At high speed for quite a while. In heavy traffic - especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer. . . . To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 82°C to 93°C (180°F to 200°F). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 24 km (15 mi) when outside temperatures are above 10°C (50°F). If it is colder than 10°C (50°F), drive the vehicle in 3 (Third) until the engine temperature gauge moves and then remains steady for 10 minutes. A cold fluid check can be made after the vehicle has been sitting for eight hours or more with the engine off, but this is used only as a