Important: When you check the fluid level, the fluid will be higher on the indicator when the transmission is cold. Conversely, the fluid level will drop when checked at operating temperature. This is due to the case thermostat element.
- Start the engine and operate the vehicle for 15 minutes or until the transmission fluid reaches an operating temperature of 88-93°C (190-200°F).
- Park the vehicle on a level surface. Apply the parking brake and block the wheels.
- While the engine is idling and with your foot on the brake, move the shift lever through each gear range, ending in Park.
- Check the fluid level, color, and condition.
- If you must add fluid, use DEXRON®-III Automatic Transmission Fluid
Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
DEFINITION: Diagnose transmission fluid conditions by color. | ||||
1 | Check the fluid color. Is the fluid color red? | -- | ||
2 | Is the fluid level satisfactory? | -- | ||
3 | Check the fluid. Is the fluid foamy? | -- | ||
4 | Check the fluid level. The proper fluid level should be in the middle of the X-hatch. Is the level high? | -- | ||
5 | Fluid will be low. Add fluid to the proper fluid level. Is the fluid level satisfactory? | -- | -- | |
6 | Check for external leaks. Refer to Fluid Leak Diagnosis . Did you find any leaks? | -- | ||
7 | Correct the leak condition. Did you correct the leak condition? | -- | -- | |
8 | Is the fluid level too high? | -- | ||
9 | Remove excess fluid to the proper fluid level. Refer to Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter Replacement . Is the fluid level satisfactory? | -- | -- | |
10 |
Did you drain the fluid? | -- | -- | |
11 | Is the fluid color non-transparent pink? | -- | ||
12 | Replace the cooler. Is the replacement complete? | -- | -- | |
13 |
Important: Transmission fluid may turn dark with normal use. This does not always indicate oxidation or contamination The fluid color should be light brown. Is the fluid color light brown? | -- | -- | |
14 |
Important: A very small amount of material in the bottom pan is a normal condition, but large pieces of metal or other material in the bottom pan require a transmission overhaul. Drain the fluid to determine if the fluid is contaminated. Was the fluid contaminated? | -- | ||
15 | Overhaul the transmission. Refer to the Unit Repair Section. Is the overhaul complete? | -- | -- | |
16 | Add new fluid. Is the procedure complete? | -- | -- | |
17 | Change the fluid and the filter. Refer to Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter Replacement Is this procedure complete? | -- | -- | |
18 | Is the fluid level satisfactory? If not, correct as needed. | -- | System OK | -- |
