It is not necessary to check the manual transmission fluid level. A transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to your dealer/retailer service department and have it repaired as soon as possible.

Because this operation can be difficult, you may choose to have this done at your dealer/retailer service department.

If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading.

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. Too little fluid could cause the transmission to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transmission fluid.

Check the fluid level only when your engine is off, the vehicle is parked on a level place and the transmission is cool enough for you to rest your fingers on the transmission case.

To check the fluid level, do the following:

1. Remove the filler plug.
2. Check that the lubricant level is up to the bottom of the filler plug hole.
3. If the fluid level is good and your vehicle is a CTS, replace the gasket and reinstall the filler plug. If the fluid level is good and your vehicle is a CTS-V, apply LOCTITE ® #516 or equivalent sealant to the threads and then reinstall the filler plug.

With either vehicle, be sure the plug is fully seated. If the fluid level is low, add more fluid as described in the next steps.

Here is how to add fluid. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants to determine which type of fluid to use.

1. Remove the filler plug.
2. Add fluid at the filler plug hole. Add only enough fluid to bring the fluid level up to the bottom of the filler plug hole.
3. If your vehicle is a CTS, replace the gasket and reinstall the filler plug. If your vehicle is a CTS-V, apply LOCTITE ® #516 or equivalent sealant to the threads and then reinstall the filler plug.

Again, with either vehicle, be sure the plug is fully seated.