Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check
This procedure checks both the transmission fluid level, as well as the condition of the fluid itself.
The transmission fluid level must be checked when the transmission fluid temperature is at 45 - 55°C (113 - 131°F). If the transmission fluid temperature is not at this range, operate the vehicle or allow the fluid to cool as required. Setting the transmission fluid level with fluid temperature outside this range will result in either an under or over-filled transmission. Fluid temperature higher than 55°C will result in an under-filled condition. Fluid temperature lower than 45°C will result in an over-filled condition. An under-filled transmission will cause premature component damage. An over-filled transmission may cause fluid to discharge out the vent tube, fluid foaming, pump cavitation, or overheating. Transmission overheating may result in loss of vehicle propulsion without warning.
Initial Fluid Level Confirmation
- Verify if transmission service has been performed.
- If no transmission repair has been performed and no leaks are evident, proceed directly to the Final Level Checking Procedure below.
- Following any transmission service, remove the fluid filler cap (1) and the fluid level hole plug (2).
- If the fluid is flowing as a steady stream, wait until the fluid begins to drip.
- If no fluid comes out, add fluid until fluid drips out. Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers
NOTE:Service replacement transmissions may come shipped with up to 3L (3.2 Q) of fluid.
- Install the fluid level hole plug. Fastener Specifications (Off-Vehicle) Fastener Specifications (On-vehicle)
- Perform the Final Level Checking Procedure below.
Ensure the transmission has enough fluid in it to safely start the vehicle without damaging the transmission. With the vehicle off and the transmission fluid temperature at approximately 20 - 25°C (68 - 77°F), there must be at least enough fluid to drain out of the fluid level hole.
You must confirm fluid level at the proper temperature range.
Final Level Checking Procedure
- Start the engine.
- Allow the engine to idle in Park (P).
- Keep the engine running and observe the transmission fluid temperature using the scan tool.
- When the transmission fluid temperature is in the 45 - 55°C (113 - 131°F) range, move the shift lever through Park (P), Neutral (N) and Drive (D) 2 times and back to Park (P).
- Raise the vehicle on a hoist. The vehicle must be level, with the engine running and the shift lever in the PARK range.
While the vehicle is idling, remove the fluid level hole plug (2). Allow any fluid to drain.
- If the fluid is flowing as a steady stream, wait until the fluid begins to drip.
- If no fluid comes out, add fluid until fluid drips out.
- Proper level is achieved when fluid slowly drips at a rate of 3 drips per second.
- Reinstall the fluid level hole plug. Fastener Specifications (Off-Vehicle) Fastener Specifications (On-vehicle)
- Inspect the fluid color. The fluid should be red or dark brown.
- If the fluid color is very dark or black and has a burnt odor, inspect the fluid for excessive metal particles or other debris. Refer to Road Test to verify transmission operation. Change the transmission fluid if no other conditions are found.
- Fluid that is cloudy or milky or appears to be contaminated with water indicates engine coolant or water contamination. Engine Coolant/Water in Transmission
- Inspect for external leaks. Fluid Leak Diagnosis
- If the fluid was changed, reset the transmission oil life monitor if applicable.
You may have to open the hood to maintain engine operation.
If the transmission fluid temperature reading is not at the required temperature, allow the vehicle to cool, or operate the vehicle until the appropriate range is reached. If the fluid temperature is below the specified range, driving the vehicle will raise the fluid temperature to the specification quicker than engine idling.