Fluid Level Check
Fluid Level Check (CVT Vehicles Equipped With a Fluid Level Indicator Without Crosshatch Marks)NOTE: In order to get an accurate fluid level reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface and idling between (680-780 rpm) for 5 minutes and the fluid temperature should be at least 43°C - 47°C (109°F - 117°F) using the WDS.
Under normal circumstances the fluid level should be checked during normal maintenance. If the transaxle starts to slip or shows signs of fluid leaking, the fluid level should be checked.
1. With the transaxle in PARK, the vehicle on a level surface, the engine at idle (680 - 780 rpm), foot pressed on the brake, move the selector lever through each gear and allow engagement of each gear. Place the selector lever back in the PARK position.
2. Wipe the fluid level indicator cap and remove the fluid level indicator.
3. Wipe the fluid level indicator with a clean cloth.
4. Install the fluid level indicator back into the fluid indicator tube until it is fully seated, then remove the indicator. The fluid level should be at the upper most mark on the indicator.
CVT Fluid Level Indicator Without Crosshatch Marks
Fluid Level Check (CVT Vehicles Equipped With a Fluid Level Indicator With Crosshatch Marks)
NOTE: In order to get an accurate fluid level reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface and idling between (680 - 780 rpm) for 5 minutes and the fluid temperature should be at least 88°C - 92°C (190°F - 198°F) using the WDS.
Under normal circumstances the fluid level should be checked during normal maintenance. If the transaxle starts to slip, shifts slowly or shows signs of fluid leaking, the fluid level should be checked.
1. With the transaxle in PARK, the vehicle on a level surface, the engine at idle (680 - 780 rpm), foot pressed on the brake, move the selector lever through each gear and allow engagement of each gear. Place the selector lever back in the PARK position.
2. Wipe the fluid level indicator cap and remove the fluid level indicator.
3. Wipe the fluid level indicator with a clean cloth.
4. Install the fluid level indicator back in the fluid indicator tube until it is fully seated, then remove the indicator. The fluid level should be within the crosshatch marks on the indicator.
CVT Fluid Level Indictor With Crosshatch Marks
High Fluid Level (CVT)
A fluid level that is too high may cause the fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating internal parts. This will cause foaming, loss of fluid from the vent tube, fluid level indicator tube and possible transaxle malfunction and/or damage. If an overfill reading is indicated, loosen the fluid drain plug and allow a small amount of fluid to drain.
Low Fluid Level (CVT)
A low fluid level could result in poor transaxle engagement, slipping of the chain, malfunction and damage to the transaxle variators. This could also indicate a leak in one of the transaxle seals or gaskets.
Adding Fluid (CVT)
CAUTION: The use of any other type of transmission fluid than specified will result in transaxle malfunction and/or damage.
If fluid needs to be added, add fluid in 0.25L (1/2 pint) increments through the fluid fill plug located on the top of the transaxle near the fluid level indicator. Do not overfill the fluid. For fluid type, refer to the specification chart.
Fluid Condition Check (CVT)
1. Check the fluid level.
2. Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be green or dark green not brown or black.
3. Hold the fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the fluid to drip onto the facial tissue and examine the stain.
4. If evidence of solid material is found, the transmission fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
5. 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. This includes the cooler tubes.
6. If the transaxle is to be overhauled or if installing a new transaxle, install a new transmission fluid cooler.