Transmission Fluid Checking Procedure
- Install a scan tool.
- Start the engine.
- Park the vehicle on a level surface.
- Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever from PARK to REVERSE for 10 seconds.
- Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever from REVERSE to DRIVE for 10 seconds.
- Move the shift lever back to PARK. The engine should remain running.
- Remove the plug from the center of the fluid fill lower tube. The fluid fill lower tube is located on the bottom of the unit.
- Do not use ATF P/N 21005966 or P/N 21019223. These fluids are not compatible with this transmission.
- Use Saturn DEX-CVT® Fluid P/N 22688912.
- If fluid drains down as a steady stream from the opening, wait for it to stop. If fluid does not drain from the opening, add more fluid until it starts to drain as a steady stream, then stop adding fluid immediately. Allow fluid to drain until the fluid stream stops.
- Inspect the fluid color.
- Inspect the fluid for metal or other debris which may indicate transaxle damage.
- Inspect the fluid for a cloudy or milky appearance which may indicate engine coolant contamination.
- Replace the lower fill tube plug.
Tighten: Tighten the plug to 11 N.m (97 lb in).
- On the scan tool, observe the Trans. Fluid Temp. and record the temperature.
- If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 20°C (68°F), add 0.5 qt (0.47 liter) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.
- If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 40°C (104°F), add 0.75 qt (0.71 liter) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.
- If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 60°C (140°F), add 1 qt (0.95 liter) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.
- If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 80°C (176°F), add 1.25 qt (1.18 liters) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.
IMPORTANT:
IMPORTANT:
The normal use color for DEX-CVT® fluid is green or light brown. Fluid may also turn dark brown from normal use, and does not always indicate contamination. Fluid that is very dark or black and has a burnt odor usually indicates contamination or over-heating.
NOTE:
Refer to Fastener Notice
in Cautions and Notices.