Dodge Caliber. Manual

FLUID

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING

EFFECTS OF INCORRECT FLUID LEVEL

A low fluid level allows the pump to take in air along with the fluid. Air in the fluid will cause fluid pressures to be
low and develop slower than normal. If the transmission is overfilled, the gears churn the fluid into foam. This aer-
ates the fluid and causing the same conditions occurring with a low level. In either case, air bubbles cause fluid
overheating, oxidation, and varnish buildup which interferes with valve and clutch operation. Foaming also causes
fluid expansion which can result in fluid overflow from the transmission vent or fill tube. Fluid overflow can easily be
mistaken for a leak if inspection is not careful.

CAUSES OF BURNT FLUID

Burnt, discolored fluid is a result of overheating which has three primary causes.

1. Internal clutch slippage, usually caused by low line pressure, inadequate clutch apply pressure, or clutch seal
failure.

2. A result of restricted fluid flow through the main and/or auxiliary cooler. This condition is usually the result of
a faulty or damaged oil cooler, or severe restrictions in the coolers and lines caused by debris or kinked lines.

3. Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not properly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer towing or similar
high load operation will overheat the transmission fluid if the vehicle is improperly equipped. Such vehicles should
have an auxiliary transmission fluid cooler, a heavy duty cooling system, and the engine/axle ratio combination
needed to handle heavy loads.

FLUID CONTAMINATION

Transmission fluid contamination is generally a result of:

•

adding incorrect fluid

•

failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when checking level

•

engine coolant entering the fluid

•

internal failure that generates debris

•

overheat that generates sludge (fluid breakdown)

•

failure to replace contaminated converter after repair

The use of non-recommended fluids can result in transmission failure. The usual results are erratic shifts, slippage,
abnormal wear and eventual failure due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid this condition by using rec-
ommended fluids only.

The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and other foreign mate-
rial on the cap and tube could fall into the tube if not removed beforehand. Take the time to wipe the cap and tube
clean before withdrawing the dipstick.

Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is generally caused by a cooler malfunction. The only remedy is to replace
the radiator as the cooler in the radiator is not a serviceable part. If coolant has circulated through the transmission,
an overhaul is necessary.

The torque converter should be replaced whenever a failure generates sludge and debris. This is necessary
because normal converter flushing procedures will not remove all contaminants.

STANDARD PROCEDURE

CHECK OIL LEVEL

1. Verify that the vehicle is parked on a level surface.

2. Remove the dipstick tube cap.

WARNING: There is a risk of accident from vehicle starting off by itself when engine running. There is a risk
of injury from contusions and burns if you insert your hands into the engine when it is started or when it
is running. Secure vehicle to prevent it from moving off by itself. Wear properly fastened and close-fitting
work clothes. Do not touch hot or rotating parts.

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AUTOMATIC - CVT-SERVICE INFORMATION

Dodge Caliber. Manual - part 1279