With Dip Stick
Check Fluid Level and ConditionCAUTION: The vehicle should not be driven if the fluid level indicator shows the fluid below the Do Not Drive mark or internal failure could result.
NOTE: Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an accurate fluid level check, drive the vehicle until warmed, approximately 30 km (18.75 miles). If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic, during hot weather or while pulling a trailer. the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking.
NOTE: The transmission fluid level should be checked at normal operating temperatures, 66 - 77 °C (150 - 170 °F), on a level surface. The normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 32 km (20 miles) of driving. However, you can check the fluid level without driving if the outside temperature is above 10 °C (50 °F). When the vehicle has not been driven, and the outside is above 10 °C (50 °F), the fluid level should be between the holes on the indicator. If the transmission fluid is to be checked when the fluid is at room temperature, the fluid level indicator could indicate that fluid should be added if the indicator is misread. If fluid is added at this time, an overfill condition could result when the vehicle reaches operating temperature of 66 - 77 °C (150 - 170 °F).
1. Drive the vehicle 30 km (18.75 miles) or until the vehicle reaches normal operating temperatures.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
3. With the parking brake applied and your foot on the brake pedal, start the engine and move the range selector lever through all the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
4. Place the range selector lever in (P) park and leave the engine running.
5. Remove the fluid level indicator and wipe it clean with a lint free cloth.
6. Install the fluid level indicator until it is fully seated into the filler tube.
7. Remove the fluid level indicator and inspect the fluid level. The fluid level should be in the designated area for normal and room temperature.
High Fluid Level
Fluid levels above the safe range may result in transmission failure. An overfill condition of transmission fluid may cause shift or engagement concerns and possible damage. High fluid levels can be caused by an overheating condition. A fluid level that is too high may cause the fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating internal parts. This will cause erratic control pressure, foaming, loss of fluid from the vent tube and possible transmission malfunction and/or damage. If an overfill reading is indicated drain and refill the transmission.
Low Fluid Level
DO NOT DRIVE the vehicle if the fluid level is below the hole at the bottom of the fluid level indicator or not on the fluid level indicator, and the outside temperatures are above 10 °C (50 °F). A low fluid level could result in poor transmission engagement, slipping, malfunction and/or damage. This could also indicate a leak in one of the transmission seals or gaskets.
Adding Fluid
CAUTION: The use of any other type of transmission fluid than specified could result in transmission malfunction and/or damage. An overfill condition of transmission fluid may cause shift or engagement concerns and possible damage.
Before adding fluid be sure that the correct type is being used.
If fluid needs to be added, add fluid in 0.25 L (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube. Do not overfill the fluid.
Fluid Condition Check
1. Check the fluid level.
2. Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be dark reddish, not brown or black.
3. Hold the fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the fluid to drip onto the facial tissue and examine the stain.
4. If evidence of solid material is found, the transmission fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
5. If the stain is a foamy pink color, this may indicate coolant in the transmission. The engine cooling system should also be inspected at this time.
6. If fluid contamination or transmission failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the transmission fluid pan, the transmission must be disassembled and completely cleaned. This includes the torque converter and cooler lines.
7. Carry out diagnostic checks and adjustments.