Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level ground will
improve the accuracy of the oil level readings. Maintain
the oil level between the ADD and SAFE markings on the
dipstick. Adding one quart of oil when the reading is at
the ADD mark will result in a SAFE reading on these
engines.Change Engine Oil
CAUTION!
Overfilling or underfilling the crankcase will cause
oil aeration or loss of oil pressure. This could dam-
age your engine.
Road conditions as well as your kind of driving affect the
interval at which your oil should be changed. Check the
following to determine if any apply to you:
•Day or night temperatures are below 32°F (0°C).
•Stop and go driving.
•Extensive engine idling.
•Driving in dusty conditions
•Short trips of less than 10 miles (16.2 km)
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 371
7
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 operat-
ing temperature. Verify that solid coating of oil is seen on
both sides of the dipstick. If the fluid is low, add as
required into the dipstick tube.Do not overfill.After
adding any quantity of oil through the oil fill tube, wait
a minimum of two (2) minutes for the oil to fully drain
into the transmission before rechecking the fluid level.
NOTE:If it is necessary to check the transmissionbelow
the operating temperature, the fluid level should be
between the two “COLD” (lower) holes on the dipstick
with the fluid at approximately 70°F (21°C) (room tem-
perature). If the fluid level is correctly established at
room temperature, it should be between the “HOT”(upper) reference holes when the transmission reaches
180°F (82°C). Remember it is best to check the level at the
normal operating temperature.
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.
394 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Event Data Recorder...................... 56
Exhaust Gas Caution.............. 71,162,322,384
Exhaust System....................... 71,384
Exterior Lighting........................ 123
Filters
Air Cleaner........................375,398
Engine Fuel.......................... 375
Engine Oil........................374,418
Engine Oil Disposal.................... 374
Flashers
Turn Signal.......................... 125
Flat Tire Stowage.....................349,355
Flooded Engine Starting................... 278
Fluid, Brake........................... 419
Fluid Capacities......................... 417
Fluid Level Checks
Automatic Transmission................. 393
Power Steering........................ 380Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts.......... 418
Fog Lights.......................124,174,415
Fold Flat Load Floor..................... 156
Four Wheel Drive....................... 287
Four-Way Hazard Flasher.................. 346
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle................... 359
FrontAxle ............................. 391
Front Wheel Bearings..................... 396
Fuel................................. 317
Adding............................. 319
Filter ............................... 375
Gauge.............................. 175
Octane Rating......................317,418
Requirements......................317,417
Tank Capacity........................ 417
Fueling ............................... 319
Fuses................................ 405
Garage Door Opener..................... 142
456 INDEX
