Check Fluid Level and Condition

Check Fluid Level and Condition

CAUTION: The vehicle should not be driven if the fluid level indicator shows the fluid below the DO NOT DRIVE mark or internal failure could result.

NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period of time at highway speeds, in city traffic, in hot weather, or while pulling a trailer, the fluid needs to cool down to obtain an accurate reading.

NOTE: The fluid level reading on the indicator will differ depending on operating and ambient temperatures. The correct reading should be within the normal operating temperature range.

Under normal circumstances, the fluid level should be checked during normal maintenance. If the transmission starts to slip, shifts slowly, or shows of leaking, the fluid level should be checked.

Fluid Level Check
1. With the transmission in (P) PARK, the engine at idle and the brake pedal depressed, move the selector lever through each gear and allow engagement of each gear. Place the selector lever in the PARK position.
2. Wipe the fluid level indicator cap and remove the indicator.
3. Wipe the indicator with a clean cloth.

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4. Install the indicator back in the filler tube until it is fully seated, then remove the indicator. The fluid level should be within the normal operating temperature range.

High Fluid Level
A fluid level that is too high may cause the fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating internal parts. This will erratic control pressure, foaming, dose of fluid from the vent tube and possible transmission malfunction and or damage. If an overfill reading is indicated refer to Transmission Fluid Drain and Refill.

Low Fluid Level
A fluid level that is too low may also cause the fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating internal parts.
A low fluid level can result in poor transmission engagement, slipping, malfunction and/or damage. This can also indicate a leak in one of the transmission seals or gaskets.

Adding Fluid

CAUTION: The use of any other type of transmission fluid than specified can result in transmission malfunction and/or damage.

If fluid must be added, add fluid in 0.25 Liters (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube. Do not overfill the fluid.

Fluid Condition Check
1. Check the fluid level.
2. Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be dark reddish, not brown, pink, black or have a burnt odor.
3. Hold the fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the fluid to drop onto the facial tissue and examine the stain.
4. If evidence of solid material is found, the transmission fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
5. If the stain is a foamy pink color, this may indicate coolant or water in the transmission. The engine cooling system should also be inspected at this time.
6. If fluid contamination or transmission failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the fluid pan, the transmission must be disassembled and completely cleaned. This includes the torque converter, coolers, cooler lines and cooler bypass valve.
7. Carry out diagnostic checks and adjustments; refer to Diagnosis By Symptom.