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How to Check
Because this operation can be a little difficult, you
may choose to have this done at the dealership
service department.
If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions
here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.
NOTICE:
Too much or too little fluid can damage your
transmission. Too much can mean that some of
the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine
parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire.
Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check
your transmission fluid.
Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the
transmission fluid level if you have been driving:
When outside temperatures are above 90 F (32 C).
At high speed for quite a while.
In heavy traffic
-- especially in hot weather.
While pulling a trailer.
To get the right reading, the fluid should be
at normal operating temperature, which is
180 F to 200 F (82 C to 93 C).
Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about
15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are
above 50 F (10 C). If it’s colder than 50 F (10 C),
drive the vehicle in AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( )
until the engine temperature gage moves and then
remains steady for 10 minutes. Then follow the hot
check procedures.
Checking Transmission Fluid Cold
A cold check is made after the vehicle has been sitting
for eight hours or more with the engine off and is used
only as a reference. Let the engine run at idle for five
minutes if outside temperatures are 50 F (10 C) or
more. If it’s colder than 50 F (10 C), you may have
to idle the engine longer. Should the fluid level be low
during a cold check, you must perform a hot check
before adding fluid. This will give you a more accurate
reading of the fluid level.