GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

DT 46475 (DW260-070) Auto Transaxle Oil Plug Remover/Installer

Inspection Procedure


    Object Number: 1255910  Size: SH
  1. Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle for approximately 5 minutes. If possible, drive the vehicle for a few kilometers (miles) to warm the transaxle fluid. Inspect the fluid level when the transaxle is over 30°C (86°F).

  2. Object Number: 1255911  Size: SH
  3. Press the brake pedal. Move the shift lever through the gear ranges, pausing a few seconds in each range. Return the shift lever to the park position.
  4. Notice: Refer to Vehicle Lifting and Jacking Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1255912  Size: SH
  5. Raise and suitably support the vehicle.
  6. Place a fluid container below the fluid level plug.
  7. Caution: When the transmission is at operating temperatures, take necessary precautions when removing the check/fill plug, to avoid being burned by draining fluid.

  8. Remove the fluid level plug using the DT 46475  (1). Because the transaxle operates correctly over a range of levels, fluid may or may not drain out of the plug hole when the plug is removed.

  9. Object Number: 1255913  Size: SH
  10. Inspect the transmission fluid level. If the fluid does not drain through the plug hole after adding a total of 4 L (4.2 qt), then the transaxle was either underfilled or the transaxle is leaking fluid. Inspect the transaxle for fluid leaks. Fix any leaks before setting the transaxle fluid level.
  11. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1255914  Size: SH
  12. Use a DT 46475 (1) to install the fluid level plug.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the plug to 45 N·m (33 lb ft).

  14. When the fluid level inspection procedure is completed, wipe away any fluid from the transaxle case with a rag or shop towel. Verify that the fluid fill cap and the vent tube are properly installed.

Fluid Level Set After Service

  1. Add the transaxle fluid through the fill cap hole prior to adjusting the fluid level. The amount of fluid to add should be based on the type of service done. For proper fluid level, refer to Fluid Capacity Specifications .
  2. Inspect the transaxle fluid level.
  3. Add additional fluid through the fill cap hole in 0.5 L (0.5 qt) increments until the fluid comes out through the plug hole.
  4. Allow the fluid to finish draining out through the plug hole, then install the fluid level plug.
  5. When the fluid level setting procedure is completed, wipe any fluid from the transaxle case with a rag or shop towel. Also, check that the fluid fill cap and the vent tube are properly installed.