GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Checking Fluid Level At The Normal Operating Temperature

Check the transmission fluid level at every engine oil change. Perform a fluid level check when the transmission fluid is at normal temperature, 70°C-80°C (158°F-175°F). Driving the vehicle at 60 km/h (37 mph) in D range for 15 minutes will raise the fluid temperature to the normal operating temperature. The fluid level check procedure is as follows:

  1. Place the vehicle on a level surface.
  2. Apply the parking brake and block the vehicle wheels.
  3. Important: DO NOT race the engine.

  4. Start the engine with the selector lever in the PARK position.
  5. Run the engine at idle and move the selector lever through each range, pausing at each range for about 3 seconds.
  6. Return to the PARK position.
  7. Let the engine idle for 3 more minutes.

  8. Object Number: 166041  Size: SH
  9. Remove the fluid level indicator from the filler tube while the engine is running at idle.
  10. Wipe off the fluid level indicator.
  11. Reinsert the fluid level indicator into the filler tube making sure it is seated in its original position
  12. Remove the indicator and check the fluid level. The level should be between the FULL HOT (2) and LOW HOT (3) marks. If the level is below the LOW HOT mark, add fluid to bring the level to the FULL HOT mark. Bringing the fluid level from the LOW HOT mark to the FULL HOT mark requires 0.3 liters (0.3 quarts) of fluid. Use Dexron®-III automatic transmission fluid GM P/N 12346143, or the equivalent.
  13. Repeat the preceding 4 steps if fluid is added.

Checking Fluid Level at Room Temperature

If the transmission has been overhauled or the fluid has been drained for oil pan and/or valve body service, refill the transmission after assembly and check its level according to the following procedures:

  1. Place the vehicle on a level surface.
  2. Apply the parking brake and block the vehicle wheels.
  3. Important: DO NOT race the engine.

  4. Start the engine and run the engine at idle for 5 minutes while the selector lever is in PARK position.

  5. Object Number: 166041  Size: SH

    Notice: Do not overfill the transmission. Overfilling will result in foaming, loss of fluid, and possible damage to the transmission.

  6. Check the level on the fluid level indicator with the engine running at idle. Fluid level should be between the FULL COLD (4) and LOW COLD (5) marks. If the fluid level is below the LOW COLD mark, add fluid to bring the level between the LOW COLD and the FULL COLD marks. Use Dexron®-III automatic transmission fluid GM P/N 12346143, or the equivalent. DO NOT overfill.