AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID (ATF) INSPECTION[LA4AX-EL (CD4E)]

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Caution

•  The vehicle should not be driven if the ATF level is low and the outside temperature is 10 °C {50 °F} or more.

Note

•  ATF expands when warmed.

•  To obtain an accurate ATF level inspection, drive the vehicle at approx. 30 km {20 miles}.

•  If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period, in city traffic, during hot weather, or while pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for approx. 30 min to allow the ATF to cool before inspection.

Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) Condition Inspection

Caution

•  ATF contamination or incorrect ATF can cause poor shift quality. If the transaxle is suspected to be the cause of the problem, drain the transaxle and replace the ATF with the specified ATF (Mercon^® ATF or equivalent).

1.  Remove the oil dipstick and observe the color to determine the ATF condition.

•  If the color is not normal as indicated in the table, investigate the cause of the problem.

ATF color	Condition
Clear red	Normal
Dark red	Powertrain components (clutches) fault
Light red	Contaminated with water
Reddish brown	Deteriorated ATF

Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) Level Inspection

Caution

•  The ATF amount varies according to the ATF temperature. Therefore, when inspecting the ATF level or replacing the ATF, use a thermometer to measure the temperature then adjust the ATF amount to the specified level according to the specified temperature.

1.  Drive the vehicle at 30 km {20 miles} or until the vehicle reaches normal operating temperature.

2.  Place the vehicle on level ground and engage the parking brake.

3.  Start the engine and shift the selector lever and pause momentarily in each shift position while depressing the brake pedal.

Note

•  Allow sufficient time for each shift position to engage.

4.  Shift the selector lever to the P position and leave the engine running.

5.  Remove the oil dipstick and wipe it clean with a clean cloth.

6.  Install the oil dipstick, making sure that it is fully seated in the filler tube.

7.  Remove the oil dipstick and inspect the ATF level.

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1	Max line
2	Min line
3	ATF level at operating temperature 66—77 °C {150—170 °F}
4	Indicates vehicle must not be driven

•  If the level is not within the specification, adjust the ATF level.

Note

•  The ATF level should be within the grid area of the oil dipstick at normal operating temperature.