Fluid - CVT: Service and Repair

CHECK TRANSAXLE FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION

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

Transaxle Fluid Level Check

NOTE:The transaxle fluid should be checked at normal operating temperature 80°C - 93°C (175°F - 200°F) on a level surface. Normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 32 km (20 mi) of driving and can be checked using the scan tool.Under normal circumstances, the transaxle fluid level should be checked during normal maintenance. If the transaxle starts to slip, shifts slowly or shows signs of transaxle fluid leaking, the transaxle fluid level should be checked.
1. With the transaxle in PARK, the engine at idle, and the brake applied, move the selector lever through each gear and allow engagement of each gear. Place the selector lever in the PARK position.

2. Wipe the transaxle fluid level indicator cap and remove the transaxle fluid level indicator.

3. Wipe the transaxle fluid level indicator with a clean cloth.










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

High Transaxle Fluid Level

A transaxle fluid level that is too high may cause the transaxle fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating internal parts. This will cause erratic control pressure, foaming, loss of transaxle fluid from the vent tube and possible transaxle malfunction and/or damage. If an overfill reading is indicated, see AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE - 2.5L AND 3.0L.

Low Transaxle Fluid Level

A low transaxle fluid level could result in poor transaxle engagement, slipping, malfunction and/or damage. This could also indicate a leak in one of the transaxle seals or gaskets.

Adding Transaxle Fluid

CAUTION:Automatic transmission fluids are not interchangeable. The use of any fluid other than what is recommended for this transaxle will cause transaxle damage. Refer to the material specification for the correct fluid. This transaxle is a fill for life and the transmission fluid should be changed every 241,402 km (150,000 mi) regardless of normal or special operating conditions.
If transaxle fluid needs to be added, add transaxle fluid in 0.25L (1/2 pt) increments through the transaxle fluid level indicator tube. Do not overfill the transaxle fluid. For transaxle fluid type, see Automatic Transaxle.

Transaxle Fluid Condition Check

1. Check the transaxle fluid level.

2. Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be a dark red color, not brown or black or have a burnt odor.

3. Hold the transaxle fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the transaxle fluid to drip onto the facial tissue and examine the stain.

4. If evidence of solid material is found, the transaxle fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.

5. If transaxle fluid contamination or transaxle failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the transaxle fluid pan, repair the transaxle and clean the transaxle fluid cooler tubes and the transaxle fluid cooler.

6. If the transaxle is to be overhauled or if installing a new transaxle, the transaxle fluid cooler must be backflushed. See - Service and Repair.