Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check
The vehicle could have forward propulsion while in neutral. Failure to keep the brake pedal depressed while starting or shifting through the gear ranges may cause the vehicle to move forward resulting in potential vehicle damage and possibly injury or death.
The transmission fluid level must be checked when the transmission fluid temperature (TFT) is between 60 - 80°C (140 - 176°F). If the TFT is not within this range, either idle or brake torque the vehicle to raise the fluid temperature, or shut off the vehicle to allow the fluid to cool as required. Setting the fluid level with a TFT outside this range will result in either an under or over-filled transmission. TFT>80°C = under-filled, TFT<60°C = over-filled. An under-filled transmission will cause premature component wear or damage. An over-filled transmission will cause fluid to discharge out the vent tube, possibly causing a fire that may result in serious bodily injury or severe vehicle damage, fluid foaming, or pump cavitation.
This procedure checks both the transmission fluid level, as well as the condition of the fluid itself. Since the transmission on this vehicle is not equipped with a fill tube and dipstick, a check plug on the side of the transmission is used to set the fluid level.
- 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 check hole. This will ensure that there is enough fluid in the sump to fill the components once the vehicle is started.
- Start and idle the engine.
- Observe the TFT using the driver information center (DIC) or a scan tool.
- Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever from PARK to REVERSE for 10 seconds, then REVERSE to DRIVE for 10 seconds. Then move the shift lever back to PARK (P).
- Allow the engine to idle 500 - 800 rpm for at least 3 minutes to allow any fluid foaming to dissipate and the fluid level to stabilize. Release the brake pedal.
- Raise the vehicle on a hoist. The vehicle must be level, with the engine running and the shift lever in the PARK range.
- CAUTION:
The engine must be running when the automatic transmission case plug is removed or excessive fluid loss will occur, resulting in an under-fill condition. An under-filled transmission will cause premature component wear or damage.
NOTE:Continue to monitor the TFT. If the TFT is not within the specified values, reinstall the trans oil level check plug and repeat the previous steps.
NOTE:Do not remove the plastic plug in the valve body cover.
Remove the transmission oil level check plug (1) in the case. 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, reinstall check plug, add 1.0L of oil and repeat steps 3-6 until fluid drips out.
- Inspect the fluid color.
- If the fluid color is very dark or black and has a burnt odor, inspect the fluid and inside of the valve body cover for excessive metal particles or other debris. A small amount of "friction" material in the cover is a "normal" condition. If large pieces and/or metal particles are noted in the fluid or cover, flush the oil cooler and cooler lines and overhaul the transmission. If there are no signs of transmission internal damage noted, replace the fluid filter, repair the oil cooler, and flush the cooler lines.
- Fluid that is cloudy or milky or appears to be contaminated with water indicates engine coolant or water contamination. Engine Coolant/Water in Transmission
- Reinstall the transmission oil level check plug.
Tighten
10.5 N.m (93 lb in)
- Inspect for external leaks. Fluid Leak Diagnosis
Ensure the transmission has enough fluid in it to safely start the vehicle without damaging the transmission.
The normal use color for HPCVT 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 overheating.
Refer to Fastener Caution .