2009 Dodge Dakota Owner Manual - Page 376

374 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE CAUTION! Be aware that if the fluid temperature is below 50° F (10° C) it may not register on the dipstick. Do not add fluid until the temperature is elevated enough to produce an accurate reading. 7. Check for leaks. Release parking brake. To prevent dirt and water from entering the transmission after checking or replenishing fluid, make certain that the dipstick cap is properly reseated. It is normal for the dipstick cap to spring back slightly from its fully-seated position, as long as its seal remains engaged in the dipstick tube. Selection of Lubricant It is important that the proper lubricant is used in the transmission to assure optimum transmission performance. Use only the manufacturer's recommended transmission fluid. Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts" in this section for the correct fluid type. It is important that the transmission fluid be maintained at the prescribed level using the recommended fluid. Special Additives Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered product and its performance may be impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid additives to the transmission. The only exception to this policy is the use of special dyes to aid in detecting fluid leaks. In addition, avoid using transmission sealers as they may adversely affect seals.