2010 Dodge Dakota Extended Cab Owner Manual - Page 377

376 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE WARNING! (Continued) • Do not allow petroleum based fluid to contaminate the brake fluid. Brake seal components could be damaged, causing partial or complete brake failure. This could result in an accident. Automatic Transmission NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with a dipstick, use the following procedure. If your vehicle has a capped dipstick, it is sealed and should not be tampered with. Your authorized dealer has the proper tools to ensure that the fluid level is set properly. Fluid Level Check Check the fluid level while the transmission is at normal operating temperature 180° F (82° C). This occurs after at least 15 miles (24 km) of driving. At normal operating temperature the fluid cannot be held comfortably between the fingertips. To check the automatic transmission fluid level properly, the following procedure must be used: 1. Operate the engine at idle speed and normal operating temperature. 2. The vehicle must be on level ground. 3. Fully apply the parking brake and press the brake pedal. 4. Place the shift lever momentarily into each gear position, ending with the shift lever in PARK. 5. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and reinsert it until seated. 6. Remove the dipstick again and note the fluid level on both sides. The fluid level should be between the "HOT" (upper) reference holes on the dipstick at normal operating temperature. Verify that solid coating of oil is seen on both sides of the dipstick. If the fluid is low, add as