Page 432 of 536
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level ground will
improve the accuracy of the oil level readings. Always
maintain the oil level within the SAFE zone on the
dipstick. Adding one quart of oil when the reading is at
the bottom of the SAFE zone will result in a reading at the
top of the safe zone 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)
432 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Page 455 of 536

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 transmission below
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.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 455
7
Page 527 of 536

Multi-Function Control Lever............... 166
Noise Control Maintenance .......................... 458
Tampering Prohibited ................458,459
Noise Emission Warranty .................. 460
Occupant Restraints ..................... 30,67
Occupant Restraints
(1500 Standard and Quad Cab Only) ........... 30
Occupant Restraints (2500/3500/Mega Cab Only) . . 67
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel) .............. 356
Odometer .......................... 222,226
Trip ............................. 222,226
Off-Pavement Driving (Off-Road) ............ 394
Off-Road Driving (Off-Pavement) ............ 394
Oil, Engine ......................... 431,485
Capacity ............................ 483
Change Interval ....................... 432 Dipstick
............................. 431
Disposal ............................ 435
Filter ............................ 435,485
Filter Disposal ........................ 435
Identification Logo ..................... 434
Materials Added to ..................... 434
Pressure Gauge ....................... 220
Recommendation ................... 433,483
Synthetic ............................ 434
Viscosity .......................... 434,483
Onboard Diagnostic System ................ 428
Opener, Garage Door (HomeLink ) ........... 183
Operating Precautions .................... 428
Outside Rearview Mirrors .................. 117
Overdrive ............................. 301
Overdrive OFF Switch .................... 301
Overhead Console .................... 175,176
Overhead Travel Information Center .......... 176
Owner’s Manual (Operator Manual) .......... 514
INDEX 527
10