GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Saturn 🢒 2004 🢒 ION 🢒 Transmission/Transaxle 🢒 Automatic Transaxle - AF23-5 🢒 Transmission Fluid Replacement
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

    2. Object Number: 749315 Size: SH
  2. Remove the drain plug (819) from the transmission. Allow the fluid to completely drain.
  3. Remove the gasket (820) from the drain plug (819) and discard.
  4. Install the new gasket (820) on the drain plug (819).
  5. Install the drain plug into the transmission.

    6. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

    Tighten
    Tighten the drain plug to 40 N·m (30 lb ft).

  6. Lower the vehicle.

    7. Important: Do not attempt to remove the 3rd gear anchor band bolt, located on top of the transmission. Removing the bolt will dislocate the internal components, resulting in removal and disassembly of the transmission.


    Object Number: 889767 Size: SH
  7. Remove the transmission level gage bolt (1) and gage (2).

    8. Important: Do not use ATF (P/N 21005966 or P/N 21019223). These fluids are not compatible with this transmission.

  8. Add approximately 3.1 Liters (3.3 Qt) of Saturn T-IV fluid (P/N 22689186) through the transmission level gage tube.
  9. With the vehicle on a flat level surface, start the engine and operate until the transmission fluid temperature reaches 60-70°C (140-158°F).
  10. Apply the parking brake.
  11. Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever slowly through all gear ranges, pausing approximately 3 seconds in each range.
  12. Return the shift lever to the park position.

    13. Important: Make sure the fill level tube is clean and free of debris.

  13. Push the transmission level gage into the level gage tube until fully seated.
  14. Pull the transmission level gage from the transmission in order to check the proper fluid level on the gage.
  15. If the fluid is not within the proper range, adjust as necessary.
  16. When complete, install the transmission level gage bolt (1).

    17. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 5 N·m (44 lb in).