Automatic Transmission FluidWhen to Check and Change AutomaticTransmission FluidA good time to check the automatic transmission fluidlevel is when the engine oil is changed.Change the fluid and filter at the intervals listed inAdditional Required Services on page 6-5, and be sureto use the transmission fluid listed in RecommendedFluids and Lubricants on page 6-11.How to Check Automatic TransmissionFluidBecause this operation can be a little difficult, you maychoose to have this done at the dealer/retailer servicedepartment.If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructionshere or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damageyour transmission. Too much can mean that someof the fluid could come out and fall on hot engineparts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire.Too little fluid could cause the transmission tooverheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if youcheck your transmission fluid.Wait at least 30 minutes before checking thetransmission fluid level if you have been driving:• When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C).• At high speed for quite a while.• In heavy traffic — especially in hot weather.• While pulling a trailer.To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normaloperating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F(82°C to 93°C).Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles(24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F(10°C). If it is colder than 50°F (10°C), you may haveto drive longer.5-19
