Checking Fluid Levels

NOTE: Do not overfill. Overfilling will cause foaming, loss of fluid and possible damage to the transaxle.

Fluid level should be checked when it reaches normal operating temperatures of 190-200°F (88-93°C). This temperature is reached after approximately 15 miles (24 km) of highway driving. To check transaxle fluid:

Park vehicle on level ground.
Apply parking brake and block drive wheels.
Start engine and operate vehicle for 15 minutes or until normal operating temperature is reached.
Move gear selector through all gear positions.
Move gear selector to Park ("P").
Check fluid level, color and condition. See Fig 1 .

Inaccurate fluid level readings will result if checked immediately after the vehicle has been operated:

In high ambient temperatures above 90°F (32°C).
At sustained high speeds.
In heavy city traffic during hot weather.
As a towing vehicle.
In commercial service (taxi or police use).

Fig 1: Checking Fluid Color, Level & Condition

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.