Check Fluid Level and Condition

Check Fluid Level and Condition
Fluid Level Check

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, city traffic, hot weather, or pulling a trailer, the fluid needs to cool down to obtain an accurate reading.
The fluid level reading on the indicator will differ from operating and ambient temperatures. The correct reading should be within the normal operating range. Under normal circumstances, the fluid level should be checked during normal maintenance. If the transmission starts to slip, shift slowly, or has signs of fluid leaking, the fluid level should be checked and leak(s) repaired.

1. With the transmission in (P) Park, the engine at idle, foot pressed on the brake, move the range 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 fluid level indicator with a clean cloth.





4. Install the fluid level indicator back in the oil filler tube until it is fully seated, then remove the fluid level indicator. The fluid level should be within the normal operating 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 cause erratic control pressure, foaming, loss of fluid from the vent tube and possible transmission malfunction and/or damage. If an overfill reading is indicated, refer to the transmission fluid drain and refill procedure in this section.

Low Fluid Level
A low fluid level could result in poor transmission engagement, slipping, malfunction and/or damage. This could 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 could result in transmission malfunction and/or damage.

Before adding fluid be sure that the correct type is being used; refer to GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS. If fluid needs to be added, add fluid in 0.25L (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube. Do not overfill the fluid. For fluid type, refer to the specification chart.

Fluid Condition Check
5. Check the fluid level.
6. Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be dark reddish, not brown or black.
7. Hold the fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the fluid to drip onto the facial tissue and examine the stain.
8. If evidence of solid material is found, the oil pan should be removed for further inspection.
9. If the stain is a foamy pink color, this may indicate coolant in the transmission. The engine cooling system should also be inspected at this time.
10. If fluid contamination or transmission failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the oil pan, the transmission may need to be replaced and torque converter and cooling lines flushed.
11. Perform diagnostic checks and adjustments.