Chrysler Repair: 2003 Dodge Stratus car problem: wrong trans fluid?, manual roland, power flush

Question
QUESTION: I recently had my transmission flushed and the mechanic had to seal a gasket because it was leaking. After this has been done, when I get the speed up to about 45 and above and when I slow down to turn or for a stop light, the car will kind of jerk upon stopping or turning. I did not have this before they worked on the car, could it be something to do with the transmission?


ANSWER: Hi Trena,
It is uncertain if this problem is related to the servicing or merely coincidental. You might want to check the fluid level in the transmission via its dipstick. If you find it to be low, only use a ATF +4 fluid; do not use Dexron-type fluid under any circumstances. Make sure that the mechanic who serviced your car did not use Dexron fluid (look at receipt and/or ask the mechanic). Dexron will damage the transmission if used.
In any case you could possibly find the cause of the problem by having the memory of the powertrain and transmission controllers read out for fault codes that might have been stored. This can be done for free at most Autozone parts stores or for around $40 at an independent shop. Ask for the fault code numbers, what they mean, what they recommend, and how much is the cost. Then write back with that information and we'll compare them to the shop manual.
Roland

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for responding, the receipt says they used Dexron III ATF? Now what?


Answer
I would return and request that they do a power flush of the transmission (not just a drain which only takes out 1/2 of the fluid) and if they don't have a power flush unit then ask that they refer you to a shop that will do that at their expense. Then explain that you will be getting a fault code readout (of if you trust them have them do it) and as well tell them that you will need to see if the problem that any code suggests or the problem that you are experiencing are resolved satisfactorily. They should be responsible if the problem persists. Chrysler manuals clearly warn against using Dexron type fluid in their transmissions.
Roland