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,
70-80°C (158-175°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:
- Place the vehicle on a level surface.
- Apply the parking brake and block the vehicle wheels.
- Start the engine with the selector lever in the PARK position.
DO NOT race the engine.
- Run the engine at idle and move the selector lever through each
range, pausing at each range for about three seconds.
- Return to the PARK position.
- Let the engine idle for three more minutes.
- Remove the fluid level
indicator from the filler tube while the engine is
running at idle.
- Wipe off the fluid level indicator.
- Reinsert the fluid level indicator into the filler tube making
sure it is seated in its original position
- 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.
- Repeat the preceding four 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:
- Place the vehicle on a level surface.
- Apply the parking brake and block the vehicle wheels.
- Start the engine and run the engine at idle for five minutes while
the selector lever is in PARK position. DO NOT race the engine.
Notice: Do not overfill the transmission. Overfilling will result in foaming,
loss of fluid, and possible damage to the transmission.
- 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.