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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.
A cold fluid check can be made after the vehicle has been
sitting for eight hours or more with the engine off, but
this 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 this cold check, you must check the fluid hot
before adding fluid. Checking the fluid hot will give you
a more accurate reading of the fluid level.