2006 Dodge Stratus Owner Manual Sedan - Page 231

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 231 Selection of Lubricant It is important that the proper lubricant is used in the transmission to assure optimum transmission performance. Use only manufacturers recommended transmission fluid, refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct fluid type. It is important that the transmission fluid be maintained at the prescribed level using the recommended fluid. 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). CAUTION! Using a transmission fluid other than the manufacturers recommended fluid may cause deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or torque converter shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than the manufacturers recommended fluid will result in more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct fluid type. 7