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 or internal failure may result.
NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period of time at highway speeds, in city traffic, in hot weather or pulling a trailer, the transmission fluid must cool down 30 minutes to obtain an accurate reading.
This vehicle is not equipped with a transmission fluid level indicator. An incorrect level may affect the transmission operation and can result in transmission damage. To correctly check and add transmission fluid to the transmission, refer to Transmission Fluid Level Check Transmission Fluid Level Check.
High Transmission Fluid Level
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 damage. If an overfill reading is indicated, 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 damage. It can 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 may result in transmission damage.
If transmission fluid must be added, add transmission fluid in 0.25L (0.5 pt) increments through the transmission fluid pan level check screw opening. Do not overfill the transmission fluid, refer to Transmission Fluid Level Check Transmission Fluid Level Check. For transmission fluid type, refer to the General Specification chart.
Transmission Fluid Condition Check
1. Observe the color and the odor of the transmission fluid. Under normal circumstances, the color should be dark reddish, not brown or black.
2. Allow the transmission fluid to drip onto a facial tissue and examine the stain.
3. If evidence of solid material is found, the transmission fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
4. If 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.
5. Carry out diagnostic checks and adjustments. Refer to Diagnosis By Symptom Diagnosis By Symptom.
Water in Transmission Fluid
To correctly repair an automatic transmission or transaxle that has had water or coolant introduced into the system, completely disassemble, clean and replace the following parts:
- All internal and external seals
- All friction material; clutches and bands
- Torque converter
- All parts with bonded seals
- All solenoids
- All transmission fluid filters
Prior to installing the transmission or transaxle, the transmission fluid cooler(s), transmission fluid cooler tubes and transmission fluid cooler hoses need to be flushed and cleaned.