ATF Level, Checking and Filling
ATF Level, Checking and Filling
Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required
• Oil Collecting and Extracting Device (V.A.G 1782)
• ATF Filler Tool (V.A.G 1924): Older models must be modified. The width of the filling hook must be shortened to 20 mm. This is the only way possible to insert it into the Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) inspection hole. Deburr and clean the hook after cutting it.
• Vehicle Diagnostic Tester, for example, Vehicle Diagnosis, Testing and Information System (VAS 5051B)
Procedure
Wear protective eyewear.
Test Conditions
• The transmission must not be in the emergency running mode
• The vehicle must be horizontal.
• The selector level is in the "P" position.
• Exhaust hose/hoses from an exhaust extraction system connected.
• Engine running at idle.
• The Air Conditioning (A/C) and the heater are off.
• The vehicle diagnostic tester is connected Vehicle Self-Diagnosis and 02 - Transmission Electronics is selected.
• At the start of the testing, the ATF temperature must not be higher than 30 °C (86 °F); let the transmission cool down.
• The vehicle diagnostic tester reads the ATF temperature.
• The ATF level will vary according to the temperature of the ATF.
• It is possible to overfill the ATF if the level is checked when the temperature is too low.
• It is possible to underfill the ATF if the level is checked when the temperature is too high.
• Overfilling or underfilling will influence the function of the transmission.
• Only use the ATF available as a replacement part for the planetary gear in automatic transmission 09D. Other fluids could cause malfunctions or damage the transmission. Follow the ATF specifications provided in the Parts Catalog for the appropriate engines.
• Do not start the engine or tow the vehicle if there is no ATF in the transmission.
• Too little or too much ATF will impair the transmission.
• If the ATF coolant circuit from ATF thermostat to the radiator was opened during a repair, this test must be performed two times. Important: The ATF must be at least 80 °C (176 °F) after the first test - road test with the tester. Check the ATF level after it has cooled down as described.
Check the ATF Temperature
Display on the vehicle diagnostic tester:
- In selection - 1 - press Measured Values and then press the ->.
Display on the vehicle diagnostic tester:
- Press the button 6 in the key pad area - 1 - to get to "display group 006" and then press the Q button to confirm.
Display on the vehicle diagnostic tester:
- Read the ATF temperature in the display field - 1 -.
ATF, Checking Level and Correcting
• Tightening specification, refer to => [ Oil Pan, Filter and Mechatronic Unit Overview ] Oil Pan, Filter and Mechatronic Unit Overview.
• The ATF level is checked at the ATF inspection hole.
• The ATF level is correct if a small amount of fluid drips out of the inspection hole (this is normal because the fluid expands as it heats up) between 35 and 45 °C (95 and 113 °F) (for hot countries 50 °C (122 °F)).
- Drive the vehicle onto a 4 post hoist or over a service pit so that it is absolutely level.
• To check the ATF level, it is necessary to modify an older model (V.A.G 1924). The width of the filling hook must be shortened to 20 mm. This is the only way possible to insert it into the ATF inspection hole.
• Deburr and clean the hook after cutting it.
- Fill the reservoir for the (V.A.G 1924) with ATF for the automatic transmission 09D; for the correct ATF specification, refer to the Parts Catalog.
- Secure the (V.A.G 1924) reservoir as high as possible on the vehicle.
- Remove the rear noise insulation - 2 -.
- Start the engine and let it idle.
- With the engine idling, press the brake pedal and shift the selector lever through all the selector lever positions leaving the selector lever at least 10 seconds in each position.
- Place the (V.A.G 1782) under the transmission.
Test Temperature 35 to 45 °C (95 and 113 °F)
- When the ATF temperature of 35 °C (95 °F) is reached, remove the ATF inspection plug - arrow - and drain off any excess ATF.
• The ATF inspection plug must be installed again before the ATF reaches a temperature of 45 °C (113 °F) (50 °C (122 °F) with hot climates).
• If the ATF leaks from the ATF inspection hole before the temperature has reached 40 °C (113 °F) , the ATF level - arrow - is OK.
• If no ATF drips out of the ATF inspection hole before 40 °C (113 °F) is reached, then the ATF level - arrow - is not OK. Fill as necessary.
If the ATF is OK:
- install and tighten the ATF inspection plug. The ATF level test is now completed.
- End function Measured Values by pressing the <- button.
- Press End Output.
- Turn the ignition off and disconnect the diagnostic connector.
Top off ATF
- Insert the (V.A.G 1924) filler hook from below into the ATF inspection hole - arrow -.
- Add the ATF using the (V.A.G 1924) until ATF drips from the inspection hole.
- Install and tighten the ATF inspection plug - arrow -. The ATF level test is now completed.
- End function Measured Values by pressing the <- button.
- Press End Output.
- Turn the ignition off and disconnect the diagnostic connector.
- Install the rear noise insulation.