M/T - Fluid Leak Inspection/Diagnosis

MTF Leak? Check Trans for Overfilling

Got a 6-speed '03 CL or '04-06 TL in your shop that's leaking MTF? Before you start troubleshooting, make sure the trans isn't just overfilled. The trans in these vehicles has a vent tube inside the clutch housing. If the trans is overfilled, MTF will leak out the vent tube between the engine and the trans. Checking the MTF level is simple. Just remove the oil check bolt and its washer. The MTF level should be no higher than the bottom of the oil check bolt hole. If the MTF level is higher than the hole, the MTF will drain out the hole until the level is right.





If the MTF level is lower than the bottom of the oil check bolt hole, you'll need to top off the MTF. Remove the oil filler plug and its washer. Add Honda MTF through the oil filler plug hole until it starts running out the oil check bolt hole.





Once the MTF stops running out the hole, reinstall the oil check bolt with a new washer. Torque the bolt to 12 Nm (8.7 lb-ft). Install the oil filler plug with a new washer. Torque the plug to 44 Nm (33 lb-ft).