2008 DODGE DAKOTA automatic transmission

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM Ð OBD II
Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated onboard
diagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitors
the performance of the emissions, engine, and automatic
transmission control systems. When these systems are
operating properly, your vehicle will provide excellent
performance and fuel economy, as well as engine emis-
sions well within current government regulations.
If any of these systems require service, the OBD II system
will turn on the ªMalfunction Indicator Light.º It will
also store diagnostic codes and other information to
assist your service technician in making repairs. Al-
though your vehicle will usually be drivable and not
need towing, see your dealer for service as soon as
possible.CAUTION!
²Prolonged driving with the ªMalfunction Indica-
tor Lightº on could cause further damage to the
emission control system. It could also affect fuel
economy and driveability. The vehicle must be
serviced before any emissions tests can be per-
formed.
²If the ªMalfunction Indicator Lightº is flashing
while the engine is running, severe catalytic con-
verter damage and power loss will soon occur.
Immediate service is required.
334 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!
Worn brake hoses can burst and cause brake failure.
You could have an accident. If you see any sign of
cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, have the brake
hoses replaced immediately.
Clutch Hydraulic System
The clutch hydraulic system is a sealed maintenance free
system. In the event of leakage or other malfunction, the
system must be replaced.
Manual Transmission
Fluid Level Check
This fluid should be checked whenever other underhood
services are performed. The fluid level is checked by
removing the fill plug. If the level of the lubricant is more
than 1/49(6.35 mm) below the bottom of the filler holewhile the vehicle is level, enough lubricant should be
added to bring the level to the bottom of the filler hole.
This fluid does not require periodic changing. However,
if it becomes necessary to add or replace the fluid in these
transmissions, refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine
Parts for correct fluid type.
Automatic Transmission
Fluid Level Check
Check the fluid level while the transmission is at normal
operating temperature 180ÉF (82ÉC). This occurs after at
least 15 miles (24 km) of driving. At normal operating
temperature the fluid cannot be held comfortably be-
tween 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.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 359
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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.
Automatic Transmission Fluid And Filter Change
Follow the proper Maintenance Schedule for your type of
driving.
Selection of Lubricant
It is important that the proper lubricant is used in the
transmission to assure optimum transmission perfor-
mance. Use only manufacturer 's recommended transmis-
sion fluid; refer to Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts
for correct fluid type. It is important that the transmission
fluid be maintained at the prescribed level using the
recommended fluid.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turers recommended fluid may cause deterioration in
transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturers recommended fluid will result in
more frequent fluid and filter changes.
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 transmission. 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 361
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Chassis
Component Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts.
Automatic Transmission MopartATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Transfer Case MopartATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Manual Transmission (Getrag 238) MopartATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Clutch Linkage Multipurpose Grease, NLGI Grade 2 E.P. or equivalent.
Front Axle SAE 75W-90 Multipurpose Type, GL-5 Gear Lubricant (MS-9763).
Rear Axle SAE 75W-140 Synthetic Gear Lubricant (MS-8985). Limited-slip rear axles
require Mopartlimited-slip additive (MS-10111). Four ounces (118 ml)
should be added to the gear lubricant whenever a fluid change is made.
Brake Master Cylinder MopartDOT 3 and SAE J1703 should be used. If DOT 3 brake fluid is not
available, then DOT 4 is acceptable. Use only recommended brake fluids.
Power Steering Reservoir MopartATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
386 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Perform Maintenance Every(Where time and mileage
are listed, follow the interval that occurs first.)
Maintenance Items Miles Kilometers or Months
Replace the engine air cleaner filter. 30,000 50 000 30
Inspect the transfer case fluid. 30,000 50 000 30
Replace the top row of spark plugs on 4.7L engines.
**30,000 50 000 30
Replace the spark plugs on 3.7L engines.30,000 50 000 30
Change the automatic transmission fluid & main
sump filter, if using your vehicle for any of the follow-
ing: police, taxi, fleet or frequent trailer towing (4.7L
engines only).60,000 100 000 60
Change the automatic transmission fluid & main
sump filter, if using your vehicle for any of the follow-
ing: police, taxi, fleet or frequent trailer towing (3.7L
engines).60,000 100 000 60
392 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Perform Maintenance Every(Where time and mileage
are listed, follow the interval that occurs first.)
Maintenance Items Miles Kilometers or Months
Change the automatic transmission fluid, main sump
filter and spin-on cooler return filter (if equipped) if
using your vehicle for any of the following: police,
taxi, fleet or frequent trailer towing (4.7L engines
only).120,000 200 000 120
Change the automatic transmission fluid & main
sump filter, if using your vehicle for any of the follow-
ing: police, taxi, fleet or frequent trailer towing (3.7L
engines).120,000 200 000 120
Replace Accessory Drive Belt(s). 120,000 200 000 120
394 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Adding Fuel........................282,312
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) . . . 343
Air Conditioner Maintenance............... 346
Air Conditioning........................ 209
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips..........209,213
Air Conditioning Refrigerant.............346,347
Air Conditioning System................209,346
Air Filter.............................. 343
Air Pressure, Tires....................262,270
Airbag.............................45,166
Airbag Light..........................53,70
Alarm, Panic............................ 24
Alarm (Security Alarm).................19,160
Alignment and Balance................... 269
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle............. 7
Antenna, Satellite Radio................... 202
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)...........352,353,384
Disposal............................ 354
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)............249,250Anti-Lock Warning Light.................. 160
Anti-Theft System.....................19,160
Appearance Care........................ 363
Arming Theft System (Security Alarm)......... 19
Audio Systems (Radio).................... 197
Auto Unlock, Doors....................... 31
Automatic Door Locks..................... 30
Automatic Transaxle....................12,224
Interlock System........................ 19
Automatic Transmission.............221,225,359
Adding Fluid......................... 360
Fluid and Filter Changes................. 361
Fluid Level Check...................... 359
Fluid Type........................... 386
Gear Ranges.......................... 225
Special Additives...................... 361
Torque Converter...................... 229
Axle Fluid............................. 386
Axle Lubrication (Axle Fluid)............... 362
408 INDEX

Crates
Rear Convenience Storage................ 142
Cruise Control (Speed Control).............. 121
Cup Holder............................ 141
Customer Assistance..................... 398
Data Recorder, Event...................... 53
Daytime Running Lights................... 115
Dealer Service.......................... 337
Defroster, Rear Window................... 145
Defroster, Windshield...................70,211
Delay (Intermittent) Wipers................. 119
Diagnostic System, Onboard................ 334
Differential, Limited-Slip.................. 244
Digital Video Disc (DVD) Player............. 197
Dimmer Switch, Headlight................. 159
Dipsticks
Automatic Transmission................. 359
Oil (Engine).......................... 338Power Steering........................ 347
Disarming, Theft System................... 19
Disc Brakes............................ 357
Disposal
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)............... 354
Door Locks............................. 28
Door Opener, Garage..................... 132
Drive Belts............................ 342
Drive Shaft Universal Joints................ 348
Driving
Through Flowing, Rising, or Shallow
Standing Water........................ 245
E-85 Fuel............................. 284
Electric Remote Mirrors.................... 77
Electrical Power Outlets................... 138
Electronic Speed Control (Cruise Control)...... 121
Emergency, In Case of
Freeing Vehicle When Stuck............... 325
INDEX 411
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