ATF level, checking and topping off: Notes

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Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required

Fig 1: Identifying Vehicle Diagnosis, Testing And Information System VAS 5051

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Vehicle Diagnosis, Testing and Information System VAS 5051 A with Diagnostic cable VAS 5051/5A

Fig 2: ATF Filler System F/CVT Transmission VAS 5162

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ATF filler system F/CVT transmission VAS 5162
Safety glasses
Oil receptacle

CAUTION: The Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission Multitronic 01J requires a different ATF than shift automatics. Only ATF for CVT transmission which can be obtained as replacement part must be used in the planetary gear. ATF specifications → Capacities .

Fig 3: Identifying Illustration On Reservoir For ATF Filler System F/CVT Transmission VAS5162

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NOTE:

The illustration on the reservoir for Atf Filler System F/CVT Transmission VAS5162 in upper left graphic refers to the use of special ATF for CVT transmissions.
The illustration also shows pictures of the steps required to fill the transmission. These steps will be explained in the following.

CAUTION:

Engine must not be started if only a small amount or no ATF is in the transmission after repair work or after significant ATF loss.
In this case, a preliminary filling with 4.5 to 5 liters ATF must be performed.

NOTE:

Rules of cleanliness for working on automatic transmissions → Rules for cleanliness when working on transmission .
General repair notes → Repair instructions .

Test conditions

Transmission not in emergency operating mode.
Move vehicle onto a lifting platform or over a work pit so that it stands absolutely horizontal.
Engine idling.
Air conditioner and heating must be switched off.

Fig 4: Connecting Data Link Connector (DLC)

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Vehicle Diagnostic, Testing and Information System VAS 5051 A 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:

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.
ATF temperature is read off on the Vehicle Diagnosis, Testing and Information System VAS 5051 A.

Checking ATF temperature

Fig 5: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display

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Display on VAS 5051 A :

In selection - 1 - , click on diagnostic function "08 - Read measuring value block".

Fig 6: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display

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Display on VAS 5051 A :

1 - Enter display group, max. input value = 255

In button field - 2 - , enter "10" for "Display group 10" and confirm input by pressing Q button.

Fig 7: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display - Display Fields

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Display on VAS 5051 A :

Read off ATF temperature indicated in display field - 3 -.

Checking ATF level and topping off

NOTE:

Engine keeps running at idle speed.
The ATF level is checked at the ATF inspection plug.
ATF level is correct if a little bit of fluid still escapes at the ATF check plug between 35°and 45°C (50°C for hot countries) ATF temperature (dependent on the fluid level when warming up).

Fill ATF filler system F/CVT transmission VAS 5162 with ATF for CVT transmissions.

ATF specification → Capacities .

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

Fig 8: Securing Filled Reservoir Of ATF Filler System F/CVT Transmission VAS 5162 As High As Possible On Vehicle

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Secure filled reservoir of ATF filler system F/CVT transmission VAS 5162 as high as possible on vehicle.

NOTE:

The shut-off valve on ATF filler system F/CVT transmission VAS 5162 must be closed.

While brake pedal is depressed, shift through all selector lever positions ("P" , "R" , "N" , "D" , "S") let each position remain shifted at idle for approx. 2 seconds.

Fig 9: Identifying Quick-Release Fasteners And Noise Insulation

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Loosen quick-release screws - 2 - and - 3 - and remove rear noise insulation.
Place an oil receptacle underneath transmission.

CAUTION: Wear eye protection.

Fig 10: Identifying ATF Check Plug

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If an ATF temperature of 35°C is reached, remove ATF check plug - B -.

NOTE:

Approx. 5 cl of ATF will always drain initially from the internal oil level pipe when the plug is removed.

If ATF continues to flow out of the ATF filler plug hole over the overflow tube before the ATF reaches 40°C, the ATF level is OK.

Replace and tighten ATF check plug.

Tightening torque: 20 Nm.

NOTE:

At the latest at 45°C (50°C for hot countries) the ATF check plug must be installed again.
At an ATF temperature above 45°C, too much ATF flows out due to heat up and the transmission is not filled sufficiently!

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).

Add ATF if no ATF has escaped from the ATF check plug hole by 40°C Filling ATF .