Transmission Fluid Level Information

TRANSMISSION FLUID LEVEL INFORMATION
The transmission assembly does not have a fluid level indicator (dipstick). The fluid level can be checked by removing a plug on the side of the transmission fluid pan. Inspect the following conditions at regular intervals in order to provide early diagnosis and prevent major transmission repairs in the future:
- The fluid level
- The fluid color
- The fluid condition
This information may be used to detect conditions that could cause major transmission assembly repairs, if not detected early. When adding or changing fluid use only DEXRON(R) III. Refer to Maintenance Schedule for maintenance information and servicing intervals.
Fluid level should be checked when transmission reaches normal operating temperatures of 45°C to 85°C (113°F to 185°F). This temperature is reached after approximately 24 km (15 miles) of highway driving.
- Fluid level can also be checked when transmission is cold (before driving the vehicle). This should be followed by a final check once transmission reaches normal operating temperature.
- In high ambient temperatures above 32°C (90°F)
- At sustained high speeds
- In heavy city traffic during hot weather
- As a towing vehicle
- In commercial service
- New fluid is red in color

Important: Transmission fluid is red in color when new. The red dye is added so the assembly plant can identify the fluid by color. The red dye is not a quality indicator or permanent. As the vehicle is driven the fluid will turn darker in color. The color may eventually turn light brown.

Inaccurate fluid level readings will result if the fluid is checked immediately after the vehicle has been operating under certain conditions.