Just bought a 3.0 CL and I am wondering about the ATF level. When I pull the dipstick out there are two holes towards the bottom and one closer to the middle. Where on the dipstick should the ATF level be and should the engine be running when I check it?

 

it should be right at about the 2nd hole if not above. I always check w/ the car off. I may be doing it wrong though

 

scotty, you've lost the guru status!!!

to check the ATF, the engine needs to be running.

the 2 holes, i believe is for hot and cold. when the car is cold, it should reach the 1st hole. and when the car is hot, it should reach the 2nd hole.

it should be in the manual

 

In the manual it says between the holes... I have two holes towards the bottom that are fairly close to each other. Does it mean between those or above those two but below the hole much higher on the dipstick? Right now it is reading just a tad above the two bottom holes.

 

i don't remember any holes higher on the dipstick unless you're talking about the rivets that attaches the dipstick to the handle.

it's the 2 on the bottom.

 

The manual states to check when the vehicle is at normal operating temperature. Park the car on level pavement and TURN OFF ENGINE.

I've always checked it with the engine off. I've tried it once with the engine running and it was looow. This was when I first got the car before checking the manual...and I was like, "....this can't be right! Tranny fluid is already low and I just got the car??"