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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. The fluid level is only valid if there is a
solid coating of oil 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 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.
Appearance Care And Protection From Corrosion
Protection Of Body And Paint From Corrosion
Vehicle body care requirements vary according to geo-
graphic locations and usage. Chemicals that make roads
604 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Page 631 of 679

NOTE:
•The oil change indicator message will not monitor the
time since the last oil change. Change your vehicle’s
oil if it has been six months since your last oil change,
even if the oil change indicator message is NOT
illuminated.
•Change your engine oil more often if you drive your
vehicle off-road for an extended period of time.
•Under no circumstances should oil change intervals
exceed 8,000 miles (13 000 km) or six months, which-
ever comes first.
Your authorized dealer will reset the oil change indicator
message after completing the scheduled oil change. If a
scheduled oil change is performed by someone other
than your authorized dealer, the message can be reset by referring to the steps described under “Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC)/Oil Change Required” in
“Understanding Your Instrument Panel” or under “In-
strument Cluster Description/Odometer/Trip Odom-
eter” in “Understanding Your Instrument Panel” for
further information.
At Each Stop For Fuel
•Check the engine oil level about five minutes after a
fully warmed engine is shut off. Checking the oil level
while the vehicle is on level ground will improve the
accuracy of the oil level reading. Add oil only when
the level is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
•Check the windshield washer solvent and add if
required.
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Once A Month
•Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or
damage.
•Check the fluid levels of the coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder, power steering and transmission
(5.7L only) and add as needed.
•Check all lights and other electrical items for correct
operation.At Each Oil Change
•Change the engine oil filter.
•Inspect the brake hoses and lines.
CAUTION!
Failure to perform the required maintenance items
may result in damage to the vehicle.
Required Maintenance Intervals
Refer to the Maintenance Schedules on the following
pages for the required maintenance intervals.
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Page 663 of 679

Oil Selection..................... 580,622
Oil Synthetic ........................ 581
Overheating ........................ 548
Starting ........................... 413
Temperature Gauge ................... 294
Engine Oil Viscosity ...................... 581
Engine Oil Viscosity Chart ................. 581
Enhanced Accident Response Feature .......... 76
Entry System, Illuminated .................. 23
Ethanol ............................... 510
Event Data Recorder ...................... 80
Exhaust Gas Caution ................. 48,95,513
Exhaust System ....................... 95,589
Exterior Finish Care ...................... 605
Exterior Lights .......................... 98
Filters Air Cleaner ......................... 582
Engine Oil ......................... 582 Engine Oil Disposal
................... 582
Finish Care ............................ 605
Flashers .............................. 548
Hazard Warning ..................... 548
Turn Signal ................. 98,287,618,620
Flexible Fuel Vehicles Cruising Range ...................... 517
Engine Oil ......................... 516
Fuel Requirements ................. 513,515
Maintenance ........................ 517
Replacement Parts .................... 517
Starting ........................... 516
Flipper Glass, Liftgate ..................... 45
Flooded Engine Starting ................... 417
Fluid Capacities ......................... 622
Fluid Leaks ............................. 98
Fluid Level Checks Automatic Transmission ..........601,602,603
Brake ............................. 598
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INDEX 661