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Checking and Filling Automatic Transmission Fluid

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Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid Level and Condition

CAUTION: The vehicle should not be driven if the fluid level is below the bottom hole on the fluid level indicator and the outside temperature is above 10°C (50°F).


NOTE:
Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an accurate fluid level check, drive the vehicle until warmed, approximately 30 km (20 miles). If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic, during hot weather, or while pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking. Under normal circumstances, there is no need to check the fluid level of the transmission, since the vehicle does not use up transmission fluid. However, if the transmission is not working correctly, for instance, the transmission may slip or shift slowly, or there may be some sign of fluid leakage, the fluid level should be checked.

Fluid Level Check


  1. Drive the vehicle 30 km (20 miles) or until the vehicle reaches normal operating
    temperatures.
  2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
  3. With your foot on the brake, start the engine and move the range selector lever through all the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
  4. Place the range selector in P (park) and leave the engine running.
  5. Remove the fluid level indicator and wipe it clean with a clean cloth.
  6. Install the fluid level indicator, making sure that it is fully seated in the filler tube.
  7. Remove the fluid level indicator. The fluid should be in the designated areas for normal and room temperature.
Low Fluid Level
Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid level is below the hole at the bottom of the fluid level indicator and the outside temperature is above 10°C (50°F).

High Fluid Level

Fluid levels above the safe range can result in transmission failure. An overfill condition of transmission fluid can cause shift or engagement concerns, or possible damage.
High fluid levels can cause an overheating condition. See the previous note.

Adding Fluid

CAUTION: Use of a non-approved automatic transmission fluid can cause

internal transmission component damage. An overfill condition of transmission

fluid can cause shift or engagement concerns, or possible damage.

Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of fluid used is normally indicated on the fluid level indicator or fluid level indicator handle. If necessary, add fluid in 250 ml (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube until the level is correct. If an overfill condition occurs, excess fluid should be removed.

Fluid Condition Check

NOTE:
Evidence of fluid contamination, breakdown, or incorrect fluid can cause poor shift quality. If the transmission fluid condition is suspect, drain the transmission and replace the fluid with equivalent meeting your vehicle specification.

  • Make the normal fluid level check as described in, Fluid Level Check, in this Section.
  • Observe the color and odor of the fluid. It should be red, not brown or black. Odor can indicate an overheating condition or clutch disc or band failure.
  • Use a clean, lint-free cloth and wipe the fluid level indicator. Examine the stain for evidence of solid particles and signs of antifreeze (gum or varnish on the fluid level indicator).
If particles are present in the fluid or there is evidence of contamination, the transmission drain plug should be removed and a sample of the fluid filtered through a paper filter and examined. If transmission failure is confirmed by further evidence of coolant or excessive particles in the fluid, the transmission must be completely cleaned and repaired. This includes cleaning and flushing the torque converter and transmission cooling system. During disassembly and assembly all overhaul checks and adjustments of clearances and end play must be made. After repairing the transmission, all diagnostic tests and adjustments listed in the diagnosis section must be completed to make sure that the problem has been eliminated.
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2008 sportstrac

thanks, happy to be a part of your community

How do I check transmission fluid level? no dip stick
thanks, happy to be a part of your community

How do I check transmission fluid level? no dip stick

In recent years there have been some manufacturers that have built vehicles with no dipstick and have advised, by virtue of the owners manual, that there vehicles should not lose ATF and so there is no need for a dipstick. The owner of said vehicle is further advised that if they "think" there is a problem with the transmission that they should bring it to their dealer for service. Well, that's all well and fine if you haven't already burned out the transmission or the dealer will always check your fluid level at no extra charge. What happens if the opposite is true?

My advice to anyone buying a vehicle from this day forward should consider this; no matter how much you like the car, if it doesn't have a dipstick for the oil and the ATF, walk away ... walk away.
thanks, happy to be a part of your community

How do I check transmission fluid level? no dip stick
It depends on which trans you have. ie. the 5r55 is checked through the drain plug but you need to have the trans temp at a specific reading.

Others have provisions for a dipstick but the tube is just plugged, the dipstick needs to be purchased separately. (This is found on many Chrysler products too). It seems to be the way of the future....save $2/ unit in production costs and charge $20 after the sale if you want one.
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In recent years there have been some manufacturers that have built vehicles with no dipstick ...
Yup, Ford tried that idea for a year or two. Decided it wasn't a good idea and went back to having a dipstick/fill tube on everything.
Question, 89-Ford E-150 van v-6. Ford failed to make checking and servicing the trans fluid a 2-minute road side task. Dose anyone have a modification to correct this issue?
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