How to Add Transmission Fluid to a Dodge Stratus
by Tara Kimball
If the transmission begins to shift hard or skip in your Dodge Stratus, the transmission may be low on fluid. Running your car’s transmission with an insufficient fluid level can damage or even burn up the gears, destroying your transmission and leaving you with a large repair bill. Check your transmission fluid regularly and add fluid when necessary. Dodge recommends Mopar ATF+4 automatic transmission fluid for your Stratus.
Step 1
Park your Stratus with the engine idling. Engage the parking brake. Cycle the gear shift through each gear and place it in neutral. Raise the hood of the Stratus and lift the prop rod to support it.
Step 2
Pull the transmission fluid dipstick to test the fluid level. The dipstick is located in the front center of the engine compartment. Pull the dipstick out of the tube and wipe it clean with a dry rag. Insert the dipstick and promptly remove it. Read the fluid level on the stick. The fluid should be at or near the “hot” level.
Step 3
Place the transmission in park. Turn off the ignition. Raise the car with a jack. Place the Stratus on a set of jack stands. Locate the drain plug near the bottom of the transmission. Unscrew the drain plug and quickly insert the transmission fluid bottle. Squeeze the bottle to add fluid to the transmission. Check the fluid level again to confirm.
Step 4
Raise the car with a jack to remove the jack stands. Lower the car to the ground. Close the hood.
References
- 2004 Dodge Stratus Owner Manual; Chrysler Group, LLC; 2003
Things You'll Need
- Clean, dry rag
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Mopar ATF+4 transmission fluid
Writer Bio
Tara Kimball is a former accounting professional with more than 10 years of experience in corporate finance and small business accounting. She has also worked in desktop support and network management. Her articles have appeared in various online publications.
