Manual Transmission FluidWhen to Check Manual TransmissionFluidIt is not necessary to check the manualtransmission fluid level. A transmission fluid leakis the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs,take the vehicle to your GM dealer servicedepartment and have it repaired as soon aspossible.How to Check Manual TransmissionFluidBecause this operation can be difficult, you maychoose to have this done at your GM dealerservice department.If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all theinstructions here, or you could get a false reading.Notice: Too much or too little fluid candamage your transmission. Too much canmean that some of the fluid could come outand fall on hot engine parts or exhaust systemparts, starting a fire. Too little fluid couldcause the transmission to overheat. Be sure toget an accurate reading if you check yourtransmission fluid.Check the fluid level only when your engine is off,the vehicle is parked on a level place and thetransmission is cool enough for you to rest yourfingers on the transmission case.To check the fluid level, do the following:1. Remove the filler plug.2. Check that the lubricant level is up to thebottom of the filler plug hole.3. If the fluid level is good and your vehicle is aCTS, replace the gasket and reinstall the fillerplug. If the fluid level is good and yourvehicle is a CTS-V, apply LOCTITE ® #516 orequivalent sealant to the threads and thenreinstall the filler plug.With either vehicle, be sure the plug is fullyseated. If the fluid level is low, add more fluidas described in the next steps.355
