Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check
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Transmission Fluid Level and Condition Check
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This procedure checks both the transmission fluid level, as well as the condition of the fluid itself.
Warning
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Use Dexron VI transmission fluid only. Failure to use the correct fluid may result in transmission internal damage.
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Note
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Ensure the transmission has enough fluid in it to safely start the vehicle without damaging the transmission. With the vehicle off there must be at least enough fluid to wet the end of the dipstick bullet. This will ensure that there is enough fluid in the sump to fill the components once the vehicle is started.
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Level Checking Procedure
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1.
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Park the vehicle on a level surface, apply the parking brake and place the shift lever in PARK (P).
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3.
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Press down the brake pedal and move the shift lever through each gear range. Stop for approx. 3 seconds in each range. Then move the shift lever back to PARK (P).
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4.
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Allow the engine to idle 500-800 rpm for at least 1 minute. Release the brake pedal.
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5.
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Keep the engine running and observe the transmission fluid temperature (TFT) using the Driver Information Center or a scan tool.
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6.
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Note
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If the fluid temperature is below the specified range, perform the following procedure to raise the fluid temperature to the specified range.
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If the TFT reading is not within the required temperature ranges, allow the vehicle to cool, or operate the vehicle until the appropriate TFT is reached.
Drive the vehicle in second gear until the fluid temperature is within the specified range.
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7.
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Note
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Check the transmission fluid level when the TFT is between 180°F and 200°F (82°C and 93°C). The fluid level rises as fluid temperature increases, so it is important to ensure the transmission fluid temperature is within range.
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Remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel.
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8.
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Inspect the fluid color. The fluid should be red or dark brown.
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If the fluid color is very dark or black and has a burnt odor, inspect the fluid for excessive metal particles or other debris. A small amount of "friction material" is "normal". If big parts and/or metal particles are noted in the oil, flush the oil cooler and cooler lines, and overhaul the transmission. If there are no signs of transmission internal damage noted, replace the fluid, repair the oil cooler, and flush the cooler lines.
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9.
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Install the dipstick and tighten. Wait three seconds and then remove it again.
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10.
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Note
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Always check the fluid level at least twice. Consistent readings are important to maintaining proper fluid level. If inconsistent readings are noted, inspect the transmission vent assembly to ensure it is clean and unclogged.
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Check both sides of the dipstick and read the lower level.
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Note
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The oil does not have to reach all the way up to the MAX-marking. The checkered area is approved.
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11.
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Install and remove the dipstick again to verify the reading.
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12.
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If the fluid level is not within the crosshatch band, and the transmission temperature is between 180°F and 200°F (82°C and 93°C), add or drain fluid as necessary to bring the level into the crosshatch band. If the fluid level is low, add only enough fluid to bring the level into the crosshatch band.
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Note
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Do not add more than one pint (0.5L) at a time without rechecking the level. Once the oil is on the dipstick bullet, it will not take much more fluid to raise the fluid level into the crosshatch band. Do not overfill. Also, if the fluid level is low, inspect the transmission for leaks. Refer to
Fluid Leak Diagnosis
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13.
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If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, install the dipstick.
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14.
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If the fluid was changed, reset the transmission oil life monitor if applicable.
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Fluid Condition Inspection
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Inspect the fluid color. The fluid should be red in color. The fluid may also turn brown form normal use, and does not always indicate contamination.
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Note
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Fluid that is very dark or black and has a burnt odor usually indicates contamination or overheating.
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If the fluid color is very dark or black and has a burnt odor, inspect the fluid for excessive metal particles or other debris which may indicate transmission damage. Refer to
Road Test
to verify transmission operation. Change the transmission fluid if no other conditions are found.
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