GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Saturn 🢒 2003 🢒 ION 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Controls - 2.2L (L61) 🢒 Transmission Fluid Check
  1. Install a scan tool.
  2. Start the engine.
  3. Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever from PARK to REVERSE for 10 seconds.
  4. Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever from REVERSE to DRIVE for 10 seconds.
  5. Move the shift lever back to PARK. The engine should remain running.
  6. Remove the plug from the center of the fluid fill lower tube. The fluid fill lower tube is located on the bottom of the unit.

    7. Important: 

       • Do not use ATF P/N 21005966 or P/N 21019223. These fluids are not compatible with this transmission.
       • Use Saturn DEX-CVT® Fluid P/N 22688912.

  7. If fluid drains down as a steady stream from the opening, wait for it to stop. If fluid does not drain from the opening, add more fluid until it starts to drain as a steady stream, then stop adding fluid immediately. Allow fluid to drain until the fluid stream stops.

    8. Important: The normal use color for DEX-CVT® fluid is green or light brown. Fluid may also turn dark brown from normal use, and does not always indicate contamination. Fluid that is very dark or black and has a burnt odor usually indicates contamination or over heating.

  8. Inspect the fluid color.
  9. Inspect the fluid for metal or other debris which may indicate transaxle damage.
  10. Inspect the fluid for a cloudy or milky appearance which may indicate engine coolant contamination.

    11. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  11. Replace the plug.

    12. Tighten
    Tighten the plug to 11 N·m (97 lb in).

  12. On the scan tool, observe the Trans. Fluid Temp. and record the temperature.
  13. If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 20°C (68°F), add 0.50 qt (0.47 liter) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.
  14. If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 40°C (104°F), add 0.75 qt (0.71 liter) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.
  15. If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 60°C (140°F), add 1 qt (0.95 liter) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.
  16. If the Trans. Fluid Temp. is 80°C (176°F), add 1.25 qt (1.18 liters) of fluid to the transmission. Do not remove the plug.