2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Owner Manual - Page 410

408 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE The automatic transaxle and differential assembly are contained within a single housing. 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 the fluid. FLUID LEVEL CHECK - FOUR-CYLINDER ENGINES Use the following procedure to check the automatic transaxle fluid level properly: 1. Park the vehicle on level ground. 2. Run the engine at curb idle speed for a minimum of 60 seconds. 3. Apply the parking brake fully. 4. Place the gear selector momentarily in each gear position ending with the lever in "P" (Park). 5. Wipe the area around the dipstick clean to eliminate the possibility of dirt entering the transaxle. 6. Remove the dipstick and determine if the fluid is hot or cold. Hot fluid is approximately 180° F (82° C), which is the normal operating temperature after the vehicle is driven at least 15 miles (24 km). Hot fluid cannot be held comfortably between the fingertips. Cold fluid is at a temperature below 80°F (27°C). 7. Wipe the dipstick clean and reinsert until seated. Then, remove dipstick and note the 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."