SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE241
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION —
I
F EQUIPPED
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against using any
special additives in the transmission. Automatic
Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered product and its
performance may be impaired by supplemental additives.
Therefore, do not add any fluid additives to the
transmission. Avoid using transmission sealers as they
may adversely affect seals.
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not require
adjustment under normal operating conditions. Routine
fluid level checks are not required; therefore the
transmission has no dipstick. An authorized dealer can
check your transmission fluid level using special service
tools. If you notice fluid leakage or transmission
malfunction, visit an authorized dealer immediately to
have the transmission fluid level checked. Operating the
vehicle with an improper fluid level can cause severe
transmission damage.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid installed at
the factory will provide satisfactory lubrication for the life
of the vehicle.
Routine fluid and filter changes are not required. However,
change the fluid and filter if the fluid becomes
contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the transmission is
disassembled for any reason.
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important to use the proper transmission fluid to
ensure optimum transmission performance and life. Use
only the manufacturer's specified transmission fluid
Úpage 278. It is important to maintain the transmission
fluid at the correct level using the recommended fluid.
NOTE:No chemical flushes should be used in any transmission;
only the approved lubricant should be used.
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) —
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F EQUIPPED
The All-Wheel Drive system consists of a transfer case and
front differential. The exterior surface of these components
should be inspected for evidence of fluid leaks. Confirmed
leaks should be repaired as soon as possible.
The transfer case fluid fill/inspection plug is located in the
middle of the rear housing. To inspect the transfer case fluid
level, remove the fill/inspection plug. The fluid level should
be even with the bottom of the hole. Use this plug to add
fluid as required.
The front differential fill plug is located on the outer cover
near the half shaft attachment. To inspect the differential
fluid level, remove the fill plug. The fluid level should be
even with or slightly below the bottom of the hole.
Fluid Changes
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 223.
REAR AXLE
Fluid Level Check
Checking the fluid level while the vehicle is on level ground
and has been stationary for 15 minutes will improve the
accuracy of the fluid level reading.
Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug on the axle.
The fluid level should be 1-2.5 mm below the fill plug. Add
fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper level
Ú
page 278.
Change Axle Fluid
For the proper maintenance intervals Úpage 223.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your transmission as the
chemicals can damage your transmission components.
Such damage is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an authorized
dealer immediately. Severe transmission damage may
occur. An authorized dealer has the proper tools to
adjust the fluid level accurately.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the
manufacturer’s recommended fluid may cause
deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or torque
converter shudder
Úpage 278.
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