Checking Fluid Levels
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Chevrolet Malibu. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
DO NOT overfill. When transaxle is cold, fluid level will rise from minimum level to maximum level as transaxle reaches normal operating temperature. If vehicle has been driven for an extended period of time at high speeds, in city traffic, in hot weather or if vehicle has been pulling a trailer, an accurate fluid level reading cannot be made until vehicle has been parked and ATF is allowed to cool for about 30 minutes.
CAUTION:
The engine must be running when the transaxle fluid fill plug is removed, or excessive fluid loss will occur. See Fig 1. Transmission fluid may be hot. Since the actual fluid level is unknown, stand clear when removing the fill plug. Have a container ready to capture any lost fluid. DO NOT turn the engine off with the fill plug removed, as you can be injured by hot transmission fluid being expelled out of the oil fill opening.
NOTE:
The 4T40-E is not equipped with a dipstick.
- Fluid level must be checked with transaxle temperature of at least 104°F (40°C). To obtain proper temperature, run engine at idle for 3-5 minutes. Shift through each gear range, holding in each range for 3 seconds.
- Place gear selector in Park. Leave engine running. Raise and support vehicle. Place oil drain pan below oil check plug. Oil check plug is located in center of transaxle above pan rail, on torque converter side. See Fig 1. Remove oil check plug.
- Oil level should be even with bottom of oil check plug hole. If fluid does not drain from hole, add fluid until fluid starts to pour from hole. Tighten oil check plug to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .