2021 JEEP PATRIOT automatic transmission fluid

NOTE:
Even if the transmission can be reset, we
recommend that you visit your authorized
dealer at your earliest possible conve-
nience. Your authorized dealer has diagnos-
tic 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 elec-
tronically controlled Overdrive (sixth gear). The
transmission will automatically shift into Over-
drive if the following conditions are present:
•The gear selector is in the DRIVE position.
•The transmission fluid has reached an ad-
equate temperature.
•The engine coolant has reached an ad-
equate temperature.
•The vehicle speed is sufficiently high.
•The driver is not heavily pressing the
accelerator.Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy
has been included in the automatic transmis-
sion on your vehicle. A clutch within the torque
converter engages automatically 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 auto-
matically disengages.
NOTE:
Engagement of the torque converter clutch
is inhibited at very cold temperatures. Be-
cause 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 transmission is
sufficiently warm.
Continuously Variable Automatic
Transmission (CVT) — If Equipped
The transmission gear position display (located
in the instrument cluster) indicates the transmis-
sion gear range. You must press the brakepedal to move the gear selector out of PARK
(refer to “Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock
System” in this section). To drive, move the gear
selector from PARK or NEUTRAL to the DRIVE
position.
NOTE:
The Continuously Variable Automatic Trans-
mission (CVT) changes ratios in a continu-
ous manner. This may sometimesfeelas if
it is slipping, but this is normal and does not
harm anything.
Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE
when the accelerator pedal is released and the
vehicle is stopped. Be sure to keep your foot on
the brake pedal when shifting between these
gears.
The transmission gear selector has only PARK,
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, and DRIVE shift posi-
tions. Manual shifts can be made using the
AutoStick shift control (refer to"AutoStick"in
this section). Moving the gear selector to the left
or right (-/+) while in the DRIVE position will
manually select from a set of predefined trans-
mission gear ratios, and will display the current
gear in the instrument cluster as 1, 2, 3, etc.
173

WARNING!(Continued)
curate fluid level reading. Do not overfill. Use
only manufacturer’s recommended power
steering fluid.
If necessary, add fluid to restore to the proper
indicated level. With a clean cloth, wipe any
spilled fluid from all surfaces. Refer to “Fluids,
Lubricants, And Genuine Parts” in “Maintaining
Your Vehicle” for further information.
PARKING BRAKE
Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the
parking brake is fully applied. Also, be certain to
leave an automatic transmission in PARK, or
manual transmission in REVERSE or first gear.
The parking brake lever is located in the center
console. To apply the parking brake, pull the
lever up as firmly as possible. To release the
parking brake, pull the lever up slightly, press
the center button, then lower the lever com-
pletely.When the parking brake is applied with the
ignition switch in the ON position, the “Brake
Warning Light” in the instrument cluster will
illuminate.
NOTE:
•When the parking brake is applied and the
automatic transmission is placed in gear,
the “Brake Warning Light” will flash. If
vehicle speed is detected, a chime will
sound to alert the driver. Fully release the
parking brake before attempting to move
the vehicle.•This light only shows that the parking
brake is applied. It does not show the
degree of brake application.
When parking on a hill, it is important to turn the
front wheels toward the curb on a downhill
grade and away from the curb on an uphill
grade. For vehicles equipped with an automatic
transmission, apply the parking brake before
placing the gear selector in PARK, otherwise
the load on the transmission locking mecha-
nism may make it difficult to move the gear
selector out of PARK. The parking brake should
always be applied whenever the driver is not in
the vehicle.
Parking Brake Lever
185

Towing TipsBefore 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.
However, if frequent shifting or changes in
engine speed occur while in DRIVE, use the
AutoStick shift control to manually select a
lower gear ratio.
NOTE:
Using a lower gear ratio while operating the
vehicle under heavy loading conditions, will
improve performance and extend transmis-
sion 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 asspecified 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 highest gear that allows for adequate
performance and avoids frequent downshifts.
For example, choose"4"if the desired speed
can be maintained. Choose"3"or"2"if
needed to maintain the desired speed.
•To prevent excess heat generation, avoid
continuous driving at high RPM. Reduce
vehicle speed as necessary to avoid ex-
tended driving at high RPM. Return to a
higher gear or vehicle speed when grade and
road conditions allow.
Electronic Speed Control — If Equipped
•Do not use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads.
•When using the speed control, if you experi-
ence speed drops greater than 10 mph
(16 km/h), disengage until you can get back
to cruising speed.•Use speed control in flat terrain and with light
loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission
overheating, take the following actions:
City Driving
When stopped for short periods of time, shift the
transmission into NEUTRAL and increase en-
gine idle speed.
Highway Driving
Reduce speed.
Air Conditioning
Turn off temporarily.
222

7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
•ENGINE COMPARTMENT — 2.0L . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .253
•ENGINE COMPARTMENT — 2.4L . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .254
•ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II . . ..........255
•Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II) Cybersecurity.......255
•Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message...................256
•REPLACEMENT PARTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .256
•MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......256
•Engine Oil................................256
•Engine Oil Filter............................258
•Engine Air Cleaner Filter.......................258
•Maintenance-Free Battery.......................258
•Air Conditioner Maintenance.....................259
•Body Lubrication............................261
•Windshield Wiper Blades.......................261
•Adding Washer Fluid.........................261
•Exhaust System............................262
•Cooling System............................263
•Brake System..............................266
•Automatic Transmission (6-Speed) — If Equipped........267
251

•Automatic Transmission (CVT) — If Equipped.............268
•Manual Transmission — If Equipped..................269
•Rear Drive Assembly (RDA) — AWD/4WD Models Only.......270
•Power Transfer Unit (PTU) — AWD/4WD Models Only........270
•Appearance Care And Protection From Corrosion..........271
•FUSES......................................274•Integrated Power Module (IPM)......................275•VEHICLE STORAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...............278
•REPLACEMENT BULBS...........................279
•BULB REPLACEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .............279
•Headlamps..................................279
•Fog Lamps.................................279
•Side Repeater Lamps...........................279
•Rear Tail/Stop Lamps...........................280
•Rear Turn Signal And Backup Lamps..................280
•License Lamps...............................280
•Center High-Mounted Stoplamp.....................280
•FLUID CAPACITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .280
•FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS, AND GENUINE PARTS.............281
•Engine....................................281
•Chassis...................................282
252

WARNING!
•Use only manufacturer’s recommended
brake fluid. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants,
And Genuine Parts” in “Maintaining Your
Vehicle” for further information. Using the
wrong type of brake fluid can severely
damage your brake system and/or impair
its performance. The proper type of brake
fluid for your vehicle is also identified on
the original factory installed hydraulic mas-
ter cylinder reservoir.
•To avoid contamination from foreign matter
or moisture, use only new brake fluid or
fluid that has been in a tightly closed
container. Keep the master cylinder reser-
voir cap secured at all times. Brake fluid in
a open container absorbs moisture from
the air resulting in a lower boiling point.
This may cause it to boil unexpectedly
during hard or prolonged braking, resulting
in sudden brake failure. This could result in
a collision.
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
•Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can
result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine
parts, causing the brake fluid to catch fire.
Brake fluid can also damage painted and
vinyl surfaces, care should be taken to
avoid its contact with these surfaces.
•Do not allow petroleum based fluid to
contaminate 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 over-
all clutch system performance. Improper
brake fluids may damage the clutch system
resulting in loss of clutch function and the
ability to shift the transmission.
Automatic Transmission (6-Speed)
— If Equipped
Selection Of Lubricant — 6-Speed
Transmission
It is important to use the proper transmission
fluid to ensure optimum transmission perfor-
mance and life. Use only the manufacturer’s
specified transmission fluid. Refer to “Fluids,
Lubricants, and Genuine Parts” in this section
for fluid specifications. It is important to maintain
the transmission fluid at the correct level using
the recommended fluid.
No chemical flushes should be used in any
transmission; only the approved lubricant
should be used.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may
cause deterioration in transmission shift
quality and/or torque converter shudder. Re-
fer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine
Parts” in this section for fluid specifications.
267

Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends
against using any special additives in the trans-
mission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engi-
neered product and its performance may be
impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore,
do not add any fluid additives to the transmis-
sion. The only exception to this policy is the use
of special dyes for diagnosing fluid leaks. Avoid
using transmission sealers as they may ad-
versely affect seals.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your trans-
mission as the chemicals can damage your
transmission components. Such damage is
not covered by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does
not require adjustment under normal operating
conditions.Routine fluid level checks are not required,
therefore the transmission filler tube is capped
and no dipstick is provided. Your authorized
dealer can check your transmission fluid level
using special service tools. If you notice fluid
leakage or transmission malfunction, visit your
authorized dealer immediately to have the
transmission fluid level checked. Operating the
vehicle with an improper fluid level can cause
severe transmission damage.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit your
authorized dealer immediately. Severe trans-
mission damage may occur. Your authorized
dealer has the proper tools to adjust the fluid
level accurately.
Fluid And Filter 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 frequently driven on rough or
unpaved roads, on mountain roads, on short
trips, or in heavy city traffic during hot weather,or is used for frequent trailer towing, police,
fleet, taxi, etc., change the fluid as indicated in
the Maintenance Schedule. In addition, change
the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes contami-
nated (with water, etc.), or if the transmission is
disassembled for any reason.
Automatic Transmission (CVT) — If
Equipped
Selection Of Lubricant (CVT)
It is important to use the proper transmission
fluid to ensure optimum transmission perfor-
mance and life. Use only the manufacturer’s
specified transmission fluid which has the spe-
cial friction coefficient additives necessary for
proper steel belt traction on the drive and driven
pulleys. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genu-
ine Parts” in this section for fluid specifications.
It is important to maintain the transmission fluid
at the correct level using the recommended
fluid.
No chemical flushes should be used in any
transmission; only the approved lubricant
should be used.
268

CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may
cause belt slip and result in a complete
transmission failure! Refer to “Fluids, Lubri-
cants, And Genuine Parts” in this section for
fluid specifications.
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends
against using any special additives in the trans-
mission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engi-
neered product and its performance may be
impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore,
do not add any fluid additives to the transmis-
sion. The only exception to this policy is the use
of special dyes for diagnosing fluid leaks. Avoid
using transmission sealers as they may ad-
versely affect seals.CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your trans-
mission as the chemicals can damage your
transmission components. Such damage is
not covered by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does
not require adjustment under normal operating
conditions.
Routine fluid level checks are not required,
therefore the transmission filler tube is capped
and no dipstick is provided. Your authorized
dealer can check your transmission fluid level
using special service tools. If you notice fluid
leakage or transmission malfunction, visit your
authorized dealer immediately to have the
transmission fluid level checked. Operating the
vehicle with an improper fluid level can cause
severe transmission damage.CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit your
authorized dealer immediately. Severe trans-
mission damage may occur. Your authorized
dealer has the proper tools to adjust the fluid
level accurately.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Refer to the"Maintenance Schedule"for the
proper maintenance intervals. In addition,
change the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes
contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the trans-
mission is disassembled for any reason.
Manual Transmission — If Equipped
Lubricant Selection
Use only the manufacturers recommended
transmission fluid. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants,
And Genuine Parts” in “Maintaining Your Ve-
hicle” for further information.
269