Automatic Transaxle Fluid
(3.5L V6 Engine)
When to Check and Change Automatic
Transaxle Fluid
A good time to check your automatic transaxle
fluid level is when the engine oil is changed.
Change the fluid at the intervals listed in Additional
Required Services on page 423, and be sure to
use the transaxle fluid listed in Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 432.
How to Check Automatic
Transaxle Fluid
Because this operation can be a little difficult, you
may choose to have this done at your retailer’s
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
the transaxle. Too much can mean that some of
the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine
or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too
little fluid could cause the transaxle to overheat.
Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check
the transaxle fluid.
Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the
transaxle 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 is colder than 50°F (10°C),
you may have to drive longer.
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