2013 DODGE DART automatic transmission fluid

NOTE:Even if the transmission can be reset, we recom-
mend that you visit your authorized dealer at your
earliest possible convenience. Your authorized dealer has
diagnostic equipment to determine if the problem could
recur.
If the transmission cannot be reset, authorized dealer
service is required.
Overdrive Operation
The automatic transmission includes an electronically
controlled Overdrive (sixth gear). The transmission will
automatically shift into Overdrive if the following con-
ditions are present:
•the shift lever is in the DRIVE position,
•the transmission fluid has reached an adequate tem-
perature,
•the engine coolant has reached an adequate tempera-
ture,
•vehicle speed is sufficiently high, and
•the driver is not heavily pressing the accelerator.
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been
included in the automatic transmission on your vehicle.
A clutch within the torque converter engages automati-
cally at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly
different feeling or response during normal operation in
the upper gears. When the vehicle speed drops or during
some accelerations, the clutch automatically disengages.
NOTE: Engagement of the torque converter clutch is
inhibited at very cold temperatures. Because the engine
speed is higher when the torque converter clutch is not
engaged, it may seem as if the transmission is not shifting
into Overdrive when cold. This is normal. The torque
converter clutch will function normally once the trans-
mission is sufficiently warm.
406 STARTING AND OPERATING

Towing Tips
Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping
and backing the trailer in an area away from heavy
traffic.
Manual Transmission – If Equipped
If using a manual transmission vehicle for trailer towing,
all starts must be in first gear to avoid excessive clutch
slippage.
Automatic Transmission – If Equipped
The DRIVE range can be selected when towing. How-
ever, if frequent shifting or changes in engine speed occur
while in this range, use the AutoStickshift control to
select a lower gear ratio.
NOTE: Using a lower gear ratio while operating the
vehicle under heavy loading conditions, will improve
performance and extend transmission life by reducing
excessive shifting and heat buildup. This action will also
provide better engine braking. If you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than 45 minutes of continuous operation,
then change the transmission fluid and filter as specified
for
police, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing. Refer to
the Maintenance Schedule for the proper maintenance
intervals.
AutoStick
When using the AutoStick shift control, select the high-
est gear that allows for adequate performance and avoids
frequent downshifts. For example, choose 4if the
desired speed can be maintained. Choose 3or2 if
needed to maintain the desired speed.
Extended driving at high RPM should be avoided to
prevent excess heat generation. A reduction in vehicle
speed may be required to avoid extended driving at high
RPM. Return to a higher gear or vehicle speed when
grade or road conditions allow.
5
STARTING AND OPERATING 477

▫Exhaust System ..................... 534
▫ Cooling System ..................... 537
▫ Brake System ....................... 542
▫ Automatic Transmission – If Equipped ..... 544
▫ Manual Transmission – If Equipped ....... 546
▫ Appearance Care And Protection From
Corrosion .......................... 546
 Fuses .............................. 552
▫ Interior Fuses ....................... 552
▫ Underhood Fuses .................... 553
 Vehicle Storage ....................... 556 
Replacement Bulbs .................... 556
 Bulb Replacement ..................... 557
▫ Headlamps ........................ 557
▫ Backup Lamps ...................... 558
▫ License Lamp ....................... 559
 Fluid Capacities ...................... 560
 Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine Parts ....... 561
▫ Engine ............................ 561
▫ Chassis ........................... 562
516 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING! (Continued)
•Do not allow petroleum based fluid to contami-
nate the brake fluid. Brake seal components could
be damaged, causing partial or complete brake
failure. This could result in a collision.
CAUTION!
Use of improper brake fluids will affect overall
clutch system performance. Improper brake fluids
may damage the clutch system resulting in loss of
clutch function and the ability to shift the transmis-
sion.
Automatic Transmission – If Equipped
The automatic transmission and differential assembly are
contained within a single housing.
The fluid level in the automatic transmission should be
checked whenever the vehicle is serviced. Operation with
an improper fluid level will greatly reduce the life of the
transmission and the fluid.
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important that the proper lubricant is used in the
transmission to assure optimum transmission perfor-
mance. Use only the manufacturer’s recommended trans-
mission fluid. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
Parts” in “Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further informa-
tion. It is important that the transmission fluid be main-
tained at the prescribed level using the recommended
fluid.
544 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufac-
turer’s recommended fluid may cause deterioration
in transmission shift quality. Using a transmission
fluid other than the manufacturer’s recommended
fluid will require more frequent fluid changes. Refer
to “Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in “Main-
taining Your Vehicle” for further information.
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.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your transmission as
the chemicals can damage your transmission compo-
nents. Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Fluid Level Check
Routine fluid level checks are not required. However, if
you notice fluid leakage or transmission malfunction,
visit your authorized dealer immediately to have the
fluid level checked. Operation with an improper fluid
level can greatly reduce the life of your transmission.
Transmission Fluid Changes
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid installed at
the factory will provide satisfactory lubrication for the
life of the vehicle. However, if the vehicle is used for
frequent trailer towing, police, fleet, taxi, etc., change the
fluid as indicated in the Maintenance Schedule. Refer to
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 545

Chassis
ComponentFluid, Lubricant, or Genuine Part
Automatic Transmission (1.4L Turbo
Engine) – If Equipped We recommend you use MOPAR
C635 DDCT/MTX Transmission Fluid
Automatic Transmission (2.0L And
2.4L Engine) – If Equipped We recommend you use SK Energy ATF SP-4 Transmission Fluid
Manual Transmission – If Equipped We recommend you use MOPAR C635 DDCT/MTX Transmission Fluid
Brake Master Cylinder We recommend you use MOPARDOT 3, SAE J1703. If DOT 3, SAE
J1703 brake fluid is not available, then DOT 4 is acceptable. Use only rec-
ommended brake fluids or equivalent.
562 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

Mileage Or Time Passed
(Whichever Comes First) 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000 60,000 70,000 80,000 90,000 100,000 110,000 120,000 130,000 140,000 150,000
Or Years: 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Or Kilometers: 32,000 48,000 64,000 80,000 96,000 112,000 128,000 144,000 160,000 176,000 192,000 208,000 224,000 240,000
Flush and replace the engine
coolant at 10 years or
150,000 miles (240,000 km)
whichever comes first. XX
Change the transmission fluid
(manual or automatic 1.4L
turbo engine only) if using
your vehicle for any of the
following: trailer towing, heavy
loading, taxi, police, delivery
service (commercial service),
off-road, desert operation or
more than 50% of your driving
is at sustained speeds during
hot weather, above 90°F
(32°C). XXX
8
M
A I
N T
E
N A
N CE
S
C
H E
D
U L
E
SMAINTENANCE SCHEDULES 567

Automatic Door Locks..................... 34
Automatic Headlights .................... 212
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) ......... 372
Automatic Transaxle ...................... 380
Automatic Transmission ................386,544
Adding Fluid ....................... 545
Fluid and Filter Changes ............... 545
Fluid Level Check .................... 545
Fluid Type ......................... 544
Gear Ranges ..................... 390,400
Special Additives ..................... 545
Autostick ............................. 407
B-Pillar Location ........................ 432
Battery ............................... 528
Keyless Transmitter Replacement (RKE) ..... 27
Belts, Seat ............................ 50,95
Body Mechanism Lubrication ............... 532
Brake Assist System ...................... 418 Brake Control System, Electronic
............. 415
Brake Fluid ............................ 562
Brake System ........................... 542
Anti-Lock (ABS) ..................... 415
Master Cylinder ..................... 542
Parking ........................... 412
Warning Light ....................... 289
Brake, Parking .......................... 412
Brake/Transmission Interlock ............... 388
Brakes ............................... 542
Break-In Recommendations, New Vehicle ........ 93
Brightness, Interior Lights .................. 218
Bulb Replacement ..................... 556,557
Bulbs, Light .......................... 97,556
Camera, Rear ........................... 245
Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ........ 560
Capacities, Fluid ........................ 560
10
INDEX 583