Use the following procedure to check the transmission
fluid level properly:
1. Monitor the transmission temperature using the EVIC
display, and operate the vehicle as required to reach
the normal operating temperature.
2. Park the vehicle on level ground.
3. Run the engine at normal idle speed for at least 60
seconds, and leave the engine running for the rest of
this procedure.
4. Fully apply the parking brake and press the brake
pedal.
5. Place the shift lever momentarily into each gear posi-
tion (allowing time for the transmission to fully en-
gage in each position), ending with the transmission in
PARK.6. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and reinsert it until
seated.
7. Remove the dipstick again and note the fluid level on
both sides. The fluid level reading is only valid if there
is a solid coating of oil on both sides of the dipstick.
Note that the holes in the dipstick will be full of fluid
if the actual level is at or above the hole. The fluid level
should be between the “HOT” (upper) reference holes
on the dipstick at normal operating temperature. If the
fluid level is low, add fluid through the dipstick tube
to bring it to the proper level.Do not overfill.Use
ONLY the recommended fluid (seeFluids, Lubri-
cants, and Genuine Partsfor fluid specifications).
After adding any quantity of oil through the dipstick
tube, wait a minimum of two minutes for the oil to
fully drain into the transmission before rechecking the
fluid level.
320 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
