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
Maintenance Procedures................... 370
Maintenance Schedule.................... 422
ScheduleA......................... 437
ScheduleB.......................... 425
Malfunction Indicator Light................ 368
Manual, Service......................... 448
Manual Transmission..................285,392
Fluid Level Check...................... 392
Lubricant Selection..................393,419
Mirrors ................................ 84
Automatic Dimming..................... 85
Electric Powered....................... 87
Outside.............................. 86
Rearview............................. 84
TrailerTowing ...................... 88,339
Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle............. 7
Mopar Parts.........................370,447
Multi-Displacement Engine System........... 296
Multi-Function Control Lever............... 125Noise Control
Maintenance.......................... 397
Tampering Prohibited................397,398
Noise Emission Warranty.................. 399
Occupant Restraints....................... 33
Octane Rating, Gasoline................... 317
Odometer..........................171,175
Trip .............................171,175
Off-Pavement Driving.................... 235
Off-Road Driving........................ 235
Oil, Engine.........................370,418
Capacity............................ 417
Change Interval....................... 371
Dipstick............................. 370
Disposal............................ 374
Filter ............................374,418
Filter Disposal........................ 374
Identification Logo..................... 373
460 INDEX
