How to check automatic transmission fluid, Checking the fluid level – Cadillac 2011 DTS User Manual

Page 324

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Cadillac DTS Owner Manual - 2011

How to Check Automatic Transmission
Fluid

Because this operation can be a little difficult, you
may choose to have this done at the dealer service
department.

If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions
here or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.

Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage the
transmission. Too much can mean that some of the
fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or
exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too little fluid
could cause the transmission to overheat. Be sure
to get an accurate reading if checking the
transmission fluid.

Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the
transmission fluid level if you have been driving:

.

When outside temperatures are above
32°C (90°F).

.

At high speed for quite a while.

.

In heavy traffic — especially in hot weather.

.

While pulling a trailer.

To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal
operating temperature, which is 82°C to 93°C (180°F
to 200°F).

Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 24 km
(15 miles) when outside temperatures are above 10°C
(50°F). If it is colder than 10°C (50°F), you may have to
drive longer.

Checking the Fluid Level

Prepare the vehicle as follows:

1. Park the vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine

running.

2. With the parking brake applied, place the shift

lever in P (Park).

3. With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift

lever through each gear range, pausing for about
three seconds in each range. Then, position the
shift lever in P (Park).

4. Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes.

Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these
steps:

1. Locate the transmission fluid cap which is located

next to the radiator hose and below the engine air
cleaner/filter assembly on the driver side of the
vehicle. The cap is marked TRANS FLUID. See
Engine Compartment Overview on page 6‑14 for
more information on location.

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