Lubrication & Maintenance: Maintenance Dodge Dakota III

FLUID TYPES

When service is required, DaimlerChrysler Corporation recommends that only Mopar(R) brand parts, lubricants and chemicals be used. Mopar(R) provides the best engineered products for servicing DaimlerChrysler Corporation vehicles.

Only lubricants bearing designations defined by the following organization should be used to service a Chrysler Corporation vehicle.

1. Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
2. American Petroleum Institute (API). (Scheme 2)
3. National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI)

Scheme 2

This symbol on the front of an oil container means that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API) to meet all the lubrication requirements specified by DaimlerChrysler Corporation.

POWER STEERING FLUID

Mopar(R) ATF +4, Automatic Transmission Fluid is required in the power steering system. Substitute fluids can induce power steering system failure.

Mopar(R) ATF +4, Automatic Transmission Fluid when new is red in color. The ATF is dyed red so it can be identified from other fluids used in the vehicle such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red color is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid condition. As the vehicle is driven, the ATF will begin to look darker in color and may eventually become brown. This is normal. ATF+4 also has a unique odor that may change with age. Consequently, odor and color cannot be used to indicate the fluid condition or the need for a fluid change.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID

Note. Refer to Service Procedures in this step for fluid level checking procedures.

Mopar(R) ATF +4, Automatic Transmission Fluid is the recommended fluid for DaimlerChrysler automatic transmissions.

Dexron II fluid IS NOT recommended. Clutch chatter can result from the use of improper fluid.

Mopar(R) ATF +4, Automatic Transmission Fluid when new is red in color. The ATF is dyed red so it can be identified from other fluids used in the vehicle such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red color is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid condition. As the vehicle is driven, the ATF will begin to look darker in color and may eventually become brown. This is normal. ATF+4 also has a unique odor that may change with age. Consequently, odor and color cannot be used to indicate the fluid condition or the need for a fluid change.

FLUID ADDITIVES

DaimlerChrysler strongly recommends against the addition of any fluids to the transmission, other than those automatic transmission fluids listed above. Exceptions to this policy are the use of special dyes to aid in detecting fluid leaks.

Various "special" additives and supplements exist that claim to improve shift feel and/or quality. These additives and others also claim to improve converter clutch operation and inhibit overheating, oxidation, varnish, and sludge. These claims have not been supported to the satisfaction of DaimlerChrysler and these additives must not be used. The use of transmission "sealers" should also be avoided, since they may adversely affect the integrity of transmission seals.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

There are two maintenance schedules that show the required service for your vehicle.

First is Schedule "B" . It is for vehicles that are operated under the conditions that are listed below and at the beginning of the schedule.

1. Day or night temperatures are below 32°F (0°C).
2. Stop and go driving.
3. Extensive engine idling.
4. Driving in dusty conditions.
5. Short trips of less than 10 miles (16 km).
6. More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high speeds during hot weather, above 90°F (32°C).
7. Trailer towing.
8. Taxi, police, or delivery service (commercial service).
9. Off-road or desert operation.
10. If equipped for and operating with E-85 (ethanol) fuel.

Note. If ANY of these apply to you then change your engine oil every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first and follow schedule "B" of the "Maintenance Schedules" step of this information.

Note. If ANY of these apply to you then change your coolant every 102,000 miles (163 000 km) or 60 months, whichever comes first and follow schedule "B" of the "Maintenance Schedules" step of this information.

Note. Most vehicles are operated under the conditions listed for Schedule "B".

Second is Schedule "A" . It is for vehicles that are not operated under any of the conditions listed under Schedule "B".

Use the schedule that best describes your driving conditions. Where time and mileage are listed, follow the interval that occurs first.

Note. Under no circumstances should oil change intervals exceed 6000 miles (10 000 km) or 6 months whichever comes first.

At Each Stop for Fuel

1. Check the engine oil level about 5 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.
2. Check the windshield washer solvent and add if required.

Once a Month

1. Check tire pressure and look for unusual wear or damage.
2. Inspect the battery and clean and tighten the terminals as required.
3. Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir, brake master cylinder, and transmission and add as needed.
4. Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct operation.

At Each Oil Change

1. Change the engine oil filter.
2. Inspect the exhaust system.
3. Inspect the brake hoses.
4. Inspect the CV joints (if equipped) and front suspension components.
5. Check the automatic transmission fluid level.
6. Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.