Fluid - CVT: Testing and Inspection

TRANSMISSION FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION CHECK
1. Install a scan tool.

2. Start the engine.

3. Park the vehicle on a level surface.

4. Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever from PARK to REVERSE for 10 seconds.

5. Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever from REVERSE to DRIVE for 10 seconds.

6. Move the shift lever back to PARK. The engine should remain running.





7. Remove the plug from the center of the fluid fill lower tube. The fluid fill lower tube is located on the bottom of the unit.

Important:
^ Do not use [1][2]ATF P/N 21005966 or P/N 21019223. These fluids are not compatible with this transmission.
^ Use Saturn DEX-CVT Fluid P/N 22688912.

8. If fluid drains down as a steady stream from the opening, wait for it to stop. If fluid does not drain from the opening, add more fluid until it starts to drain as a steady stream, then stop adding fluid immediately. Allow fluid to drain until the fluid stream stops.

Important: The normal use color for DEX-CVT fluid is green or light brown. Fluid may also turn dark brown from normal use, and does not always indicate contamination. Fluid that is very dark or black and has a burnt odor usually indicates contamination or over-heating.

9. Inspect the fluid color.

10. Inspect the fluid for metal or other debris which may indicate transaxle damage.

11. Inspect the fluid for a cloudy or milky appearance which may indicate engine coolant contamination.

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

12. Replace the lower fill tube plug.
^ Tighten the plug to 11 Nm (97 inch lbs.).

13. On the scan tool, observe the Trans. Fluid Temp. and record the temperature.
^ If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 20°C (68°F), add 0.5 qt (0.47 liter) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.
^ If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 40°C (104°F), add 0.75 qt (0.71 liter) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.
^ If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 60°C (140°F), add 1 qt (0.95 liter) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.
^ If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 80°C (176°F), add 1.25 qt (1.18 liters) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.