Info - Enhanced Automatic Transaxle Fluid Fill Procedure and Plug Location/Identification

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide an enhanced automatic transaxle fluid fill procedure and to provide location and visual identification of the fluid fill plug for adding automatic transaxle fluid to the AF33-5 Aisin 5-speed automatic transaxle. The procedure provided in this bulletin allows for easier access and requires less time to complete than the procedure in the 2002-2003 Saturn VUE Transaxle Service Manual, Vol. I, which states that automatic transaxle fluid should be added by filling through the level gauge location.

Notice: Saturn Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) (P/N 21005966 and P/N 21019223) is not compatible with this transaxle. If Saturn ATF is used, transaxle damage will result. The AF33-5 Aisin 5-speed automatic transaxle uses Saturn T-IV fluid (P/N 22689186).

Notice: Do not remove the 3rd gear anchor bolt located on top of the transaxle for checking or adding transaxle fluid. Removing this bolt will dislocate internal components and require the transaxle to be removed from the vehicle and disassembled for repair.

To add automatic transaxle fluid, remove the 8 mm Allen head plug located on top of the automatic transaxle near the manual shift shaft. Refer to the illustration below.

1. Manual shift shaft
2. Automatic transaxle fluid fill plug
3. 3rd gear anchor bolt (DO NOT REMOVE THE 3RD GEAR ANCHOR BOLT FOR CHECKING OR ADDING TRANSAXLE FLUID)