AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID (ATF) INSPECTION [SJ6A-EL]

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Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Condition Inspection

1.  Inspect the ATF for the following to determine whether the transmission should be disassembled.

•  The ATF is muddy.
•  The ATF smells strange or unusual.

ATF Condition

Condition

Possible cause
Clear dark red
Normal
—
Light red (pink)
Contaminated with water
•  Damaged oil cooler inside of the radiator
Problem could occur to parts inside the transmission by water contamination. It is necessary to overhaul the transmission and detect defected parts.
If necessary, replace the transmission.
Reddish brown
Has burnt smell and metal particles are found
Deteriorated ATF
Defective the powertrain components inside the transmission:
Particles cause wide range of problems by plugging up in oil pipe, control valve body and oil cooler in radiator.
•  When large amount of metal particles are found, overhaul the transmission and inspect for defective parts.
If necessary, replace the transmission.
•  Implement flushing operation as there is a possibility to have particles plugging up the oil pipe or oil cooler inside the radiator.
Has no burnt smell
Normal
•  Discoloration by oxidation