Automatic transmission fluid (ATF), changing

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 27 other vehicles, including the 2002 Volkswagen Cabrio, 2001 Volkswagen Cabrio, 2000 Volkswagen Cabrio, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta, and 1999 Volkswagen Golf. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Procedure:

Extract ATF with VAG 1358 A/2 probe and VAG 1358 A.

ATF quantity required: approx. 3 liters (3.2 quarts).

NOTE: If there is no ATF in the system:

DO NOT start the engine.
DO NOT tow the vehicle.

Remove ATF filler pipe from sump.
Remove sump and ATF strainer.
Clean sump.

Scrupulous cleanliness is essential when performing the following installation work:

Install new gasket into the new ATF strainer.
Fit spacer bushes into the new sump gasket.
Install ATF strainer
- Securing bolt tightening torque: 8 N.m (71 in lb).

Fig 1: Installing ATF Strainer

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC.

Install oil sump
- Securing bolt tightening torque: 12 N.m (9 ft lb).
Install ATF filler pipe.
Pour in 3 liters (3.2 quarts) of ATF using funnel and extension hose.
NOTE:
- Only ATF with the designation DEXRON may be used. Do not use any lubricant additives.
- Excessive ATF causes malfunctions and must therefore be extracted again. ATF can be extracted with probe VAG 1358 A/1 and VAG 1358 A.
With engine running and vehicle stationary, shift through all selector lever positions once.
Check ATF level.
- Vehicle parked on level surface
- Parking brake applied
- Selector lever in "P" position
- Engine idling
- Use a non-fluffy cloth for wiping off dipstick.

NOTE: ATF level varies according to ATF temperature. The min. and max. markings on the ATF dipstick relate to an ATF temperature of 60 °C (140 °F).

When cold, the ATF must be topped up to the 20 °C (68 °F) marking.

Warm ATF up to operating temperature
- Operating temperature: approx. 60 °C (140 °F).
- Operating temperature can be reached from cold start after driving approx. 10 km (6.2 mi).
Measure ATF temperature with VAG 1551 Scan Tool (ST).
Connect VAG 1551 as described on DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) MEMORY, CHECKING WITH VAG 1551 SCAN TOOL (ST) .
Start engine and run at idle.
Press button -1- for "Rapid data transfer" mode.
Press buttons -0- and -2- to enter address word 02 for "Transmission Electronics" and press -Q button to confirm input.
Press --> button.
Press buttons -0- and -8- to select "Read Measuring Value Block" function 08, and press - Q- button to confirm input.
Press buttons -0- and -5- to enter display group number 05, and press -Q- button to confirm input.
Continued on next page
The ATF temperature (as measured in C) appears in display field 1

Fig 3: VAG 1551 Scan Tool (ST) Scan Tool Display - Read Measured Value Block
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: An accurate reading will be displayed only when measured temperature is above 50 °C (122 °F).

At a temperature of 50-70 °C:
On VAG 1551 press -->button.
ATF level too low:
Add missing quantity of AT.
With engine running and vehicle stationary, shift through all selector lever positions once.
Check ATF level.
VAG 1551 Scan Tool (ST) must remain connected for checking Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Memory using the On Board Diagnostic (OBD) program DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) MEMORY, CHECKING WITH VAG 1551 SCAN TOOL (ST) .