Checking Fluid Levels & Condition
NOTE:
If vehicle has been driven for extended period of time at high speed, in city traffic or pulling a trailer, an accurate fluid level cannot be immediately determined. Allow transmission to cool for about 30 minutes after vehicle is parked, then check fluid level. Transmission temperature must be at least 180°F (82°C) when checking fluid level. If cold, fluid level will rise from ADD 1 pt. or .5L to FULL mark on dipstick as transmission reaches normal operating temperature. DO NOT overfill. Transmission fluid may turn dark with normal use and does not always indicate contamination or oxidation.
- With vehicle parked on a level surface and engine at idle, move range selector lever through all ranges, ending in Park. Remove dipstick, wipe clean and check fluid level. Fluid level should be between ADD 1 pt. and FULL marks on dipstick. Inspect the fluid color. Is the fluid color Red? If so, go to step 4 . If not, go to next step.
- Inspect the fluid color. Is the fluid color a non-transparent Pink? If so, go to step 13 . If not, go to next step.
- Inspect the fluid color. Is the fluid color Light Brown? If so go to step 18 .
- Inspect the fluid. Is the fluid foamy? If so, go to step 12 . If not, go to next step.
- Inspect the fluid level. Is the fluid level high? If so, go to step 8 . If not, go to next step.
- Inspect the fluid level. Is the fluid level low? If so, go to step 9 . If not, go to next step.
- Confirm that the fluid level is okay. Is the fluid inspection complete? If so, go to step 20 .
- Remove excess fluid. Did you remove the excess fluid? If so, go to step 20 .
- Add fluid in order to obtain the proper level. Did you add fluid to the proper level? If so, go to step 20 .
- Inspect for external leaks. Are there any external leaks? If so, go to next step.
- Repair the leak. Did you repair the leak? If so, go to step 20 .
- Inspect for a high fluid level. Is the fluid level high? If so, go to step 8 . If not, go to next step.
- Inspect for contaminants in the fluid. Are there contaminants in the fluid? If so, go to next step.
- Drain the fluid in order to determine the source of contamination. Did you drain the fluid? If so, go to next step.
- Perform a transmission overhaul. See appropriate OVERHAUL article. After repairs, go to next step.
- Add new fluid. Did you add new fluid? If so, go to next step.
- Inspect the fluid level. Did you Inspect the fluid level? If so, go to step 20 .
- Drain the fluid in order to determine if there is contamination. Are there large pieces of metal or other material in the bottom of the pan? If so, go to step 15
. If not, go to next step.NOTE: A very small amount of material in the bottom pan is a normal condition.
- Change the fluid and filter. Did you change the fluid and filter? If so, go to next step.
- Perform the road test. Did you perform the test? If so, system is okay.