The transmission does not consume fluid. However, check the fluid level if the transmission is not working properly, for example if the transmission slips, shifts slowly or if there are signs of fluid loss.
Replace the transmission fluid and filter on your vehicle at the specified service interval. See
Scheduled Maintenance.
Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To check the fluid level consistently and accurately, do the following:
- Drive the vehicle until it reaches normal operating temperature. This may take up to
20 mi (30 km). Make sure that the transmission fluid temperature gauge on the instrument cluster is within normal operating temperature
196–215 °F (91–102 °C) before checking.
- Make sure that your vehicle is on level ground.
- With the engine running, parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal, move the gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
- Make sure the parking brake is on. Make sure the transmission is in park (P) or neutral (N) and leave the engine running.
- Open the hood. See
Opening and Closing the Hood.
- Remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean, lint-free cloth.See
Under Hood Overview
.
- Replace the dipstick and remove it again to check the fluid level.
- If the fluid level is correct, replace the dipstick and make sure it is fully seated.
Note:
If the fluid level is between the maximum and minimum marks, the fluid level is acceptable. Do not add fluid.
Transmission Fluid Level
Low Fluid Level
Note:
If there is no indication of fluid on the dipstick, have your vehicle checked immediately.
Correct Fluid Level
Make sure that the fluid level is between the maximum and minimum marks.
High Fluid Level
Do not add fluid further than the maximum mark. Fluid levels above the maximum mark could cause shift or engagement concerns and possible damage.
Note:
An overheating condition can cause high fluid levels.
Adding Transmission Fluid
Do not use supplemental transmission fluid additives, treatments or cleaning agents. The use of these materials could affect transmission operation and result in damage to internal transmission components and could lead to transmission damage that the vehicle Warranty does not cover.
Note:
Use of a non-approved automatic transmission fluid could cause internal transmission component damage.
If necessary, add fluid in
8 fl oz (250 ml) increments through the filler tube until the level is correct.
If an overfill occurs, remove excess fluid and have your vehicle checked as soon as possible.