2008 DODGE AVENGER automatic transmission fluid

Automatic Transaxle
The DRIVE range can be selected when towing. How-
ever, if frequent shifting occurs while in this range, third
gear for a four-speed automatic and the fifth gear for a
six-speed AutoStick t should be selected.
NOTE: Using third or fifth instead of DRIVE while
operating the vehicle under heavy operating conditions,
will improve performance and extend transaxle life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat build-up. This ac-
tion will also provide better engine braking.
If you REGULARLY TOW a trailer for more than 45
minutes of continuous operation, then change the auto-
matic transaxle fluid and filter according to the interval
specified for ªpolice, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer tow-
ingº in the ªMaintenance Scheduleº in this manual.
NOTE: Check the four-speed automatic transaxle fluid
level before towing. AutoStick t sixÐspeed transmission is sealed and the fluid level cannot be checked. See your
authorized dealership service center for assistance.
Electronic Speed Control Ð (If Equipped)
² Don't use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
² When using the speed control, if you experience speed
drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until
you can get back to cruising speed.
² Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to
maximize fuel efficiency.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transaxle overheating,
take the following actions:
² City Driving
When stopped for short periods of time, put transaxle in
neutral and increase engine idle speed.344 STARTING AND OPERATING

CAUTION!² Using a transmission fluid other than the manu-
facturer's recommended fluid may cause deterio-
ration in transmission shift quality and/or torque
converter shudder. Using a transmission fluid
other than that recommended by the manufacturer
will result in more frequent fluid and filter
changes. Refer to ªFluids, Lubricants, and Genu-
ine Partsº for the correct fluid type.
² Dirt and water in the transaxle can cause serious
damage. To prevent dirt and water from entering
the transaxle after checking or replenishing fluid,
make certain that the dipstick cap is re-seated
properly. Transmission Fluid and Filter Changes
Change the automatic transaxle fluid and filter at the
intervals shown in the ªMaintenance Scheduleº in this
manual.
In addition, change the fluid and filter if the transaxle is
disassembled for any reason.
Special Additives
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered
product and its performance may be impaired by supple-
mental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid addi-
tives to the transaxle. 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. MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 399
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Chassis
Component Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts
Automatic Transaxle Mopar t ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Brake Master Cylinder Mopar t DOT 3 and SAE J1703 should be used. If DOT 3 brake fluid is not avail-
able, then DOT 4 is acceptable. Use only recommended brake fluids.
Power Steering Reservoir Mopar t ATF+4 Automatic Transmission Fluid.424 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Automatic Door Locks ..................... 32
Automatic Oil Change Indicator ........ 173,184,426
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) ......... 246
Automatic Transaxle .............. 12,261,267,397
Adding Fluid ................... 397,398,424
Filter ............................... 399
Fluid and Filter Changes ................. 399
Fluid Level Check ................... 397,398
Interlock System ....................... 269
Reset Mode .......................... 273
Selection Of Lubricant ................... 424
Shifting ............................. 270
Special Additives ...................... 399
Autostick ............................. 274
Ball Joints ............................. 385
Battery ............................... 381
Gas Caution .......................... 381
Keyless Transmitter Replacement (RKE) ....... 26 Location ............................ 381
Bearings .............................. 400
Belts, Drive ............................ 378
Beverage Cooler ........................ 161
Body Mechanism Lubrication ............... 386
B-Pillar Location ........................ 295
Brake Assist System ...................... 282
Brake, Parking .......................... 276
Brake System ........................ 278,394
Anti-Lock (ABS) ....................... 279
Fluid Check ....................... 396,424
Hoses .............................. 395
Master Cylinder ....................... 396
Parking ............................. 276
Warning Light ........................ 179
Brakes ............................. 278,394
Brake/Transmission Interlock ............... 269
Break-In Recommendations, New Vehicle ........ 78
Bulb Replacement ..................... 41 1,412 INDEX 445
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