Checking Fluid Levels
CAUTION:
The engine must be running when the transmission fluid fill plug is removed, or excessive fluid loss will occur. Transmission fluid may be hot. Since the actual fluid level is unknown, stand clear when removing the fill plug. Have a container ready to capture any lost fluid. Do not turn the engine off with the fill plug removed, as you can be injured by hot transmission fluid being expelled out of the oil fill opening.
NOTE:
The transmission fluid checking procedure is an important part of any mechanical/hydraulic system diagnosis. The transmission fluid condition can be a reliable indicator of the presence of problems within the transmission.
- Did you perform the diagnostic system check? If not, perform the diagnostic system check. See SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM in appropriate DIAGNOSIS article in AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. If so, go to next step.
- Warm the transmission to the operating temperature by driving the vehicle 15 miles, or by running the engine until the transmission fluid temperature has reached 113-185°F (45-85°C). Raise the vehicle on a hoist. The vehicle must be level when removing the transmission fluid fill plug. If a hoist is unavailable, the vehicle must be lifted at both ends and suitably supported. Start the engine. With the engine running and the transmission at the normal operating temperature, remove the transmission fluid fill plug. Check the fluid color. If necessary, use a small screwdriver as a dipstick. Is the fluid color clear Red or Light Brown with no burnt odor? If so, go to step 5 . If not, go to next step.
- Does the fluid have a burnt odor or a dark brown color? If so, go to step 8 . If not, go to next step.
- Does the fluid have a cloudy or milky appearance? If so, go to step 7 . If not, go to step 8 .
- Check the fluid level. The fluid level should be even with the bottom of the threaded opening in the transmission oil pan. See Fig 1 . Is the fluid level low? If not, perform road test procedure. See PERFORMANCE TESTS in appropriate DIAGNOSIS article in AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. If so, go to next step.
- With the engine running, add only enough DEXRON-III(R) ATF to bring the fluid level to the bottom of the threaded opening in the transmission oil pan. Check the transmission for any external leaks at transmission oil pans, gaskets and transmission oil cooler lines. Is the repair complete? If so, perform road test procedure. See PERFORMANCE TESTS in appropriate DIAGNOSIS article in AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS.
- Replace the transmission oil cooler. Is the repair complete? If so, go to step 9 .
- Drain the fluid. Check the bottom of the pan for any excessive debris. Was a problem found? If not, go to step 10 If so, go to next step.
- Repair or replace the transmission if required. Flush transmission oil cooler and lines. See OIL COOLER FLUSHING . Add enough DEXRON-III(R) ATF to bring the fluid level to the bottom of the threaded opening in the transmission oil pan. Start the engine. Add enough DEXRON-III(R) ATF in order to bring the fluid level to the bottom of the threaded opening in the transmission oil pan. Is the repair complete? If so, perform road test procedure. See PERFORMANCE TESTS in appropriate DIAGNOSIS article in AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS.
- Change the fluid and the oil filter. Add enough DEXRON-III(R) ATF in order to bring the fluid level to the bottom of the threaded opening in the transmission oil pan. Start the engine. Add enough DEXRON-III(R) ATF in order to bring the fluid level to the bottom of the threaded opening in the transmission oil pan. Is the repair complete? If so, perform road test procedure. See PERFORMANCE TESTS in appropriate DIAGNOSIS article in AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS.
NOTE:
The transmission fluid may darken with normal use and does not always indicate contamination or oxidation.
NOTE:
A very small amount of material in the bottom of the oil pan is a normal condition.