Checking Fluid Level (Automatic Transaxle at Normal Operating Temperature)
Inspect the transaxle fluid level at every engine oil change. Perform a fluid level check when the transaxle fluid is at normal temperature, 70-80°C (158-175°F). Driving the vehicle at 60 km/h (37 mph) in the D range for 15 minutes will raise fluid temperature to the normal operating temperature. The fluid level check procedure is as follows:
- Place the vehicle on a level surface.
- Apply the parking brake and block the vehicle wheels.
- With the selector lever in the P position, start the engine. DO NOT race the engine.
- Run the engine at idle and move the selector lever through each range and return to the P position.
- With the engine running at idle, remove the fluid level indicator from the filler tube and wipe the indicator off.
- Reinsert the fluid level indicator into the filler tube making sure it is seated in its original position.
- Remove the indicator and inspect the fluid level.
The level should be between the FULL HOT (2) and the LOW HOT (3) marks.
If the level is below the LOW HOT mark, add the 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 qts) of fluid. Use Dexron®-III automatic transmission fluid GM P/N 12346143, or the equivalent.
Checking Fluid level (Automatic Transaxle at Room Temperature)
If the transaxle has been overhauled or the fluid has been drained for oil pan and/or valve body service, refill the transaxle after the assembly and inspect its level according to the following procedures.
- Place the vehicle on a level surface.
- Apply the parking brake and block the vehicle wheels.
- With the selector lever in the P position, start the engine and run the engine at idle for five minutes. DO NOT race the engine.
- With the engine running at idle, inspect the level on the fluid level indicator.
Notice: Do not overfill automatic transaxle. Overfilling may cause foaming and loss of fluid through the vent. Transaxle slippage and mechanical failure may result.
The fluid level should be between the FULL COLD (4) and the 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.
