Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition
Preliminary Inspection
The following items must be checked prior to beginning the diagnostic procedures:
Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition
Transmission Fluid Level Check
NOTICE: The vehicle should not be driven if the transmission fluid level is low as internal transmission failure could result.
NOTICE: The transmission fluid fill plug is located near the exhaust system. The exhaust will be extremely hot during this procedure.
NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high highway speeds, in city traffic, during hot weather or while pulling a trailer, the transmission fluid must cool down to obtain an accurate reading.
NOTE: If the transmission starts to slip, shifts slowly or shows signs of transmission fluid leaking, the transmission fluid level should be checked.
This transmission is equipped with an internal thermal bypass located in the case. This internal thermal bypass valve will shut off transmission fluid flowing to the transmission fluid cooler if the transmission fluid temperature falls below normal operating temperature. Refer to Transmission Fluid Level Check Transmission Fluid Level Check.
High Transmission Fluid Level
NOTICE: A transmission fluid level that is too high can cause the transmission fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating internal parts. This will cause erratic control pressure, foaming, loss of transmission fluid from the vent tube and possible transmission failure.
If an overfill reading is indicated, remove any excessive transmission fluid. Refer to Transmission Fluid Level Check Transmission Fluid Level Check.
Low Transmission Fluid Level
A low transmission fluid level can result in poor transmission engagement, slipping or failure. This may also indicate a leak in one of the transmission seals or gaskets.
Adding Transmission Fluid
NOTICE: The use of any type of transmission fluid other than specified can result in transmission failure.
NOTICE: The transmission fluid fill plug is located near the exhaust system. The exhaust will be extremely hot during this procedure.
NOTICE: The vehicle should not be driven if the transmission fluid level is low as internal failure could result.
NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high highway speeds, in city traffic, during hot weather or while pulling a trailer, the transmission fluid must cool down to obtain an accurate reading.
Add transmission fluid using the refill procedure. Refer to Transmission Fluid Drain and Refill Transmission Fluid Drain and Refill.
Transmission Fluid Condition Check
1. Check the transmission fluid level.
2. Remove the transmission fluid fill plug and transmission fluid level indicator and allow the transmission fluid to drip onto a facial tissue and examine the stain.
3. Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be dark reddish, not black or have a burnt odor.
4. If evidence of solid material is found, the transmission fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
5. If the stain is a foamy pink color, this may indicate coolant in the transmission. The engine cooling system should also be inspected at this time.
6. If transmission fluid contamination or transmission failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the transmission fluid pan, the transmission must be disassembled and completely cleaned. This includes the torque converter and transmission fluid cooler tubes. A new auxiliary transmission fluid cooler must be installed.