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
NOTICE: The vehicle should not be driven if the transmission fluid level indicator shows the transmission fluid below the DO NOT DRIVE mark or internal failure could result.
If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period of time at highway speeds, in city traffic, in hot weather or while pulling a trailer, the transmission fluid needs to cool down to obtain an accurate reading.
The transmission fluid level reading on the transmission fluid level indicator will differ depending on operating and ambient temperatures. The correct reading should be within the normal operating temperature range.
Transmission Fluid Level Check
NOTE: The transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating temperature 60°C-70°C (140°F-158°F) on a level surface. Normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 32 km (20 mi) of driving.
Under normal circumstances, the transmission fluid level should be checked during normal maintenance. If the transaxle starts to slip, shifts slowly or shows signs of transmission fluid leaking, the transmission fluid level should be checked.
1. Using the scan tool, verify the correct Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) range.
2. With the transaxle in PARK, the engine at idle, foot pressed on the brake, move the selector lever through each gear and allow engagement of each gear. Place the selector lever in the PARK position.
3. Wipe the transmission fluid level indicator cap and remove the transmission fluid level indicator.
4. Wipe the transmission fluid level indicator with a clean cloth.
5. Install the transmission fluid level indicator back in the transmission fluid filler tube until it is fully seated, then remove the indicator. The transmission fluid level should be within the normal operating range.
High Transmission Fluid Level
A transmission fluid level that is too high may 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 transaxle malfunction and/or damage. If an overfill reading is indicated, refer to Transmission Fluid Exchange Transmission Fluid Exchange.
Low Transmission Fluid Level
A low transmission fluid level could result in poor transaxle engagement, slipping, malfunction and/or damage. This could also indicate a leak in one of the transaxle seals or gaskets.
Adding Transmission Fluid
NOTICE: The use of any other type of transmission fluid than specified could result in transaxle malfunction and/or damage.
If transmission fluid needs to be added, add transmission fluid in 0.25L (1/2 pt) increments through the transmission fluid filler tube. Do not overfill the transmission fluid. For transmission fluid type, refer to the specification chart.
Transmission Fluid Condition Check
1. Check the transmission fluid level.
2. Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be a dark red color, not brown or black or have a burnt odor.
3. Hold the transmission fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the transmission 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 the stain is a foamy pink color this may indicate coolant in the transaxle. The engine cooling system should also be inspected at this time.
6. If transmission fluid contamination or transaxle failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the transmission fluid pan, install a new transaxle. If installing a new transaxle the transmission fluid cooler bypass valve, transmission fluid coolers and transmission cooler tubes should be cleaned.
7. Carry out diagnostic checks and adjustments. Refer to Diagnosis By Symptom Diagnosis By Symptom.