Special Testing Procedures
FLUID LEVEL CHECK1. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Apply the parking brake and position wheel blocks to prevent the vehicle from moving.
3. While depressing the brake pedal, shift the gearshift lever through each range, pausing in each range, until the ATF reaches the normal operating temperature of 66 - 77°C (151 - 171°F).
4. Place the gearshift lever back in the PARK (P) position, remove the fluid level indicator, wipe it clean, and replace it, making sure it is securely seated in the oil filler tube.
5. Remove the fluid level indicator again and inspect the transmission fluid level.
NOTE: Use the cool range (bottom) marks as a rough Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) level reference only when the automatic transaxle is cool (30 - 50°C). Use the hot range (top) marks when the automatic transaxle is at normal operating temperature (66 - 77°C).
6. If the ATF level is not within the marks on the appropriate scale on the fluid level indicator, add ATF fluid as necessary. Otherwise, proceed to the ATF Condition inspection.
FLUID CONDITION CHECK
1. Remove the fluid level indicator and inspect the transmission fluid condition.
2. Inspect the Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) for contamination conditions and the following:
- Burnt transmission fluid.
- Unusual smell.
- Discoloration.
- Contamination.
NOTE: Contamination conditions include improper transmission fluid type, particles, water, dirt, foam, etc. If contamination is present, the transmission fluid pan must be removed for further inspection. If the transmission fluid pan reveals contamination, the automatic transaxle must be disassembled, inspected, flushed, and cleaned.
3. If the transmission fluid is burnt, proceed to the Symptom Chart. If the transmission fluid is contaminated, replace the transmission fluid. If the ATF is low, proceed to the ATF Leaks inspection.