Checking the Fluid Level Auto Transaxle

Without shutting off the engine, follow these steps:

1. Park the vehicle on level ground.
2. Apply the parking brake.
3. Move the gear selector through all gear positions.
4. Put the transaxle in Park (P).
5. Let the engine run at slow idle for 3 minutes or more with accessories off.
6. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel.
7. Push it back in all the way, and then immediately pull it back out.
8. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level should be in the cross-hatched area or no higher than the "MAX HOT" line. There may be some spatters of fluid on the dipstick above the oil level, but this is normal.
9. Repeat steps 5, 6, and 7 several times to make sure you get an accurate reading.
10. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way.

When adding fluid, it is recommended to use Saturn transaxle fluid (P/N 21005966) for shift smoothness.

DEXRON®-III may be substituted if Saturn transaxle fluid is not available. However, shift feel may be affected and a maintenance interval of 30,000 miles (50,000 km) must then be followed for transaxle fluid and filter changes.

1. Pull out the dipstick.
2. Using a long neck funnel, add fluid at the dipstick hole.

Add only enough fluid to being the fluid level up into the middle of the cross-hatched area on the dipstick.

3. Push the dipstick back in all the way.

Add only enough Saturn transaxle fluid (P/N 21005966 or DEXRON®-III if Saturn transaxle fluid is not available) to bring the fluid level up into the middle of the "OK" in the cross-hatched area on the dipstick.

It doesn't take much, usually less than a pint. Never exceed the top of the crosshatched area on the dipstick or overfilling may occur. If you do overfill the transaxle, you need to remove the extra fluid.