4T40-E Fluid Level Inspection and Service Procedure

4T40-E FLUID LEVEL SERVICE PROCEDURE
The fluid level screw is intended to be used for diagnosing a transaxle fluid leak or resetting the transaxle fluid level after service that involves a loss of fluid.

Fluid Level Diagnosis Procedure
The fluid level should be checked when the transmission is above 40°C (104°F). This temperature can be reached by performing the following procedure.
1. Park the vehicle on a hoist, inspection pit or similar raised level surface. The vehicle must be level to obtain a correct fluid level measurement.
2. Place a fluid container below the fluid level screw.
3. Start the engine and allow the engine to idle for approximately 5 minutes or, if possible, drive the vehicle for a few kilometers to warm the transaxle fluid.
4. With the brake pedal pressed, move the shift lever through the gear ranges, pausing a few seconds in each range. Return the shift lever to P (Park).
5. Remove the fluid level screw. Because the transaxle operates correctly over a range of fluid levels, fluid may or may not drain out of the screw hole when the screw is removed.

Caution: Removal of the fluid level screw when the transmission fluid is hot may cause injury if fluid drains from the screw hole.

- If fluid drains through the screw hole the transaxle may have been overfilled. When the fluid stops draining the fluid level is correct. Install the fluid level screw and torque to the proper specification (12 Nm).
- If fluid does not drain through the screw hole the transaxle fluid level may be low. Add fluid through the fill cap hole in 0.5 liter increments, up to 1.5 liters maximum, until fluid drains through the screw hole. If fluid drains through the screw hole the fluid level was in the correct operating range. Allow the fluid to finish draining through the screw hole and install the fluid level screw. Torque the fluid level screw to the proper specification (12 Nm).
- If fluid does not drain through the screw hole after adding a total of 1.5 then the transaxle is either under filled or is leaking fluid. The transaxle should be inspected for fluid leaks and any leaks should be fixed before setting the transaxle fluid level.
6. When the fluid level checking procedure is completed, wipe any fluid from the transaxle case with a rag or shop towel. Also, check that the fluid fill cap and vent tube are properly installed.

Fluid Level Set After Service
1. Depending on the service procedure performed, add the following amounts of fluid through the fill cap hole prior to adjusting the fluid level:
Bottom pan removal 7 liters (7.4 quarts) (on-vehicle)
New converter 2.5 liters (2.6 quarts)
Complete overhaul 10 liters (10.6 quarts)
2. Follow steps 1 thru 4 of the Fluid Level Diagnosis Procedure.





3. Add additional fluid through the fill cap hole in 0.5 liter (1 pint) increments until fluid comes out the screw hole.
4. Allow the fluid to finish draining out the screw hole, install the fluid level screw and torque the screw to the proper specifications 12 Nm (106 inch lbs.).
5. When the fluid level setting procedure is completed, wipe any fluid from the transaxle case with a rag or shop towel. Also, check that the fluid fill cap and vent tube are properly installed.