Checking Fluid Level & Condition
NOTE:
Manufacturer recommends checking transmission fluid level at every oil change. The ATF amount varies according to ATF temperature. Therefore, when checking the ATF level or replacing the ATF, use a thermometer to measure the temperature then adjust the ATF amount to the specified level according to the specified temperature.
- Park the vehicle on level ground. Apply the parking brake and position wheel chocks securely to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Adjust the length or thermistor probe to measure the same depth as the oil dipstick and hold the probe with a paper holder. Insert into the filler tube and measure the temperature of the ATF.
- Inspect the ATF level before warming up the engine. In this case, use the cool range marked on dipstick 68°F (20°C). See Fig 1 . Warm up the engine until the ATF reaches a temperature of 141.75-158°F (60.75-70°C).
- While depressing the brake pedal, shift the gearshift lever to each range, pausing momentarily in each range and ending in Park position.
- While the engine is idling, verify that the ATF level is in the HOT range, approximately 149°F (65°C), on the dipstick. See Fig 1 . Add fluid as necessary. See RECOMMENDED FLUID . DO NOT overfill. Check condition of fluid for contamination and burned smell. See FLUID CONDITION table.
FLUID CONDITION
| Condition | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Clear Red | Normal |
| Light Red (Pink) | Contaminated With Water From Broken Oil Cooler Inside Of Radiator Or Poor Filler Tube Installation |
| Reddish Brown With Burnt Smell & Metal Specks Are Found | Deteriorated ATF From Defect Of Powertrain Components Inside Of Transaxle. Specks Can Cause A Wide Range Of Problems By Plugging Up Oil Pipes, Control Valve Body & Oil Cooler In Radiator |
| Reddish Brown & No Burnt Smell | Normal Discoloration Caused By Oxidation |