Fluid - A/T: Testing and Inspection

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID (ATF) INSPECTION
ATF Condition Inspection
One way of determining whether the transaxle should be disassembled/replaced is by noting:
1. If the ATF is muddy or varnished.
2. If the ATF smells strange or unusual.





ATF condition chart


ATF Level Inspection

Caution: The ATF amount varies according to ATF's temperature. Therefore, when checking 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. Park the vehicle on level ground.





2. Apply the parking brake and position wheel chocks securely to prevent the vehicle from rolling.





3. Adjust the thermistor probe to the same length as the dipstick and hold the probe with a paper holder. Insert into the filler tube and measure the temperature.
4. Warm up the engine until the ATF reaches 60 - 70°C (140 - 158°F).

Caution: Do not warm the transacts by performing stalls. This will damage the torque converter.

Note: In some cases it may be necessary to inspect the ATF in the cool range 15-25°C (59-77°F) before warming up the engine.





5. While depressing the brake pedal, shift the selector lever to each range (P-1), pausing momentarily in each range.
6. Shift back to P position.

Note: If the ATF level is too high or too low when hot, the problems may be the cause;





7. Ensure that the ATF level is in the HOT (65°C (149°)) range. Add the ATF specified type of, if necessary.
ATF type:
ATF M-III or equivalent (e.g. Dexron-III)