ATF level, checking and topping off

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Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tools - ATF Level, Checking And Topping Off

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Vehicle diagnostic, testing, and information system VAS 5051
Drip tray V.A.G 1306
ATF filler tool V.A.G 1924
Safety glasses

Test conditions

Transmission not in emergency operating mode.
Vehicle on a flat surface
Selector lever in "P" , let engine run at idle.
Air conditioning and heater switched off.

Vehicle Diagnosis, Testing and Information System VAS 5051 connected, Vehicle Self-Diagnosis and vehicle system "02 - Transmission electronics" selected.
ATF temperature must not be higher than 30° C at start of test, allow transmission to cool down if necessary.

NOTE:

ATF temperature appears in the display of vehicle diagnostic, testing and information system VAS 5051.
The ATF level will vary according to the temperature of the ATF.
Checking ATF level at too low ATF temperature leads to overfilling.
If the ATF level is checked when the ATF temperature is too high, this will result in under filling.
Over and under filling lead to impaired functioning of transmission.
Only use the ATF available as a replacement part for the planetary gearing in automatic transmission 09L. Other oils lead to malfunctions or to failure of the transmission, ATF specification → Capacities .

Checking ATF temperature

Fig 2: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display

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Display on VAS 5051 :

Select diagnostic function "011 - Measured values" in selection - 1 -.

Fig 3: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display

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Display on VAS 5051 :

1 - Enter display group

In button field - 2 - , enter "4" for "Display group 004" and confirm input by pressing Q button.

Fig 4: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display

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Display on VAS 5051 :

Read off ATF temperature indicated in display field - 1 -.

Checking ATF level and topping off

NOTE:

The ATF level is checked at the ATF inspection plug.
The ATF level is correct if a small amount of fluid drips out of the inspection hole (this is normal as the fluid expands as it heats up) at an ATF temperature between 35° C and 45° C (for hot countries 50° C).

To ensure vehicle is absolutely level, drive onto a 4-column lifting platform or over a service pit.
Fill reservoir of the ATF Filler Tool V.A.G 1924 with ATF for automatic transmission 09L; ATF specification → Capacities .

CAUTION: The ATF filler tool must be clean and the ATF must not be mixed with any other ATF oils!

Fig 5: ATF Filling System V.A.G 1924

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Secure ATF Filler Tool V.A.G 1924 reservoir as high as possible on vehicle.
Start engine and allow it to run at idle.
Place drip tray V.A.G 1306 underneath transmission.

CAUTION: Wear eye protection.

Fig 6: Identifying ATF Inspection & Drain Plug

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When ATF temperature of 35° C is reached, remove ATF inspection plug - arrow B - and drain off any excess ATF.

Fig 7: ATF Inspection Plug Gasket

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Replace ATF inspection plug gasket - arrow -.

Fig 8: Correct ATF Level

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If ATF drips from ATF inspection hole before ATF has reached 40° C, ATF level - arrow - is OK.

NOTE:

The ATF inspection plug must be installed again before the ATF reaches a temperature of 45° C (for hot countries 50° C).

Add ATF if no ATF has escaped from the ATF check plug hole by 45° C.

Fasten ATF inspection plug with new gasket to 80 Nm. The ATF check is now completed.
Press ← button to end function "08 - Read measured value block".
Select "06 - End output".
Switch off ignition and disconnect Data Link Connector (DLC).

Filling ATF

If no ATF escapes at ATF inspection opening at 40° C, ATF must be topped off;

NOTE:

The ATF inspection plug must be installed again before ATF reaches a temperature of 45° C (for hot countries 50° C). Allow transmission to cool and check again.

Fig 9: Guiding Filler Hook Of ATF Filler Tool V.A.G 1924 Into An Opening Of Protective Cap

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Guide filler hook of ATF filler tool V.A.G 1924 into an opening - arrow - of protective cap, do not push cap up and in while doing so.
Add ATF using ATF filler tool V.A.G 1924 until ATF drips from inspection hole.

NOTE:

If the ATF level is too high or too low it will adversely affect operation of the transmission.

Fasten ATF inspection plug with new gasket to 80 Nm.
Press ← button to end function "08 - Read measured value block".
Select "06 - End output".
Switch off ignition and disconnect Data Link Connector (DLC).