Fluid Condition Check
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Montego, 2006 Ford Freestyle, and 2006 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
The continuously variable transaxle (CVT) fluid is bluish-green when it is new. The CVT fluid will darken from bluish-green to darker green or brown as it ages. If there is an internal concern with a mechanical component, there will be metallic residue in the pan. With other transmission fluids, the odor was an indicator of heat damage or other concerns. With CVT fluid, the odor will not indicate heat damage or other concerns.
- Check the fluid level.
- Observe the color. The color under normal circumstances should be bluish green when new and will darken to dark green or brown as it ages, not black.
- Hold the fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the fluid to drip onto the facial tissue and examine the stain.
- If evidence of solid material is found, the transmission fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
- If fluid contamination or transaxle failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the fluid pan, the transaxle must be disassembled and completely cleaned or installed new.
- If the transaxle is to be overhauled or if installing a new transaxle, install a new transmission fluid cooler and clean and flush the fluid cooler tubes. Refer to REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
- Carry out diagnostic checks and adjustments. Refer to DIAGNOSIS BY SYMPTOM .