2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser Owner's Manual - Page 274

274 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Procedure For Checking Fluid Level To properly check the automatic transaxle fluid level, the following procedure must be used: 1. The vehicle must be on level ground. 2. The engine should be running at curb idle speed for a minimum of 60 seconds. 3. Fully apply parking brake. 4. Place the gear selector momentarily in each gear position ending with the lever in P (PARK). 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 24 km (15 miles). The fluid cannot be comfortable held between the finger tips. Warm is when the fluid is between 85° to 125°F (29° to 52°C). 6. Wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert until seated. Remove dipstick and note reading. If the fluid is hot, reading should be in the cross hatched area marked "HOT" between the upper two holes in the dipstick.