ON-VEHICLE SERVICE
TSB Revision
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE
23A-366
ESSENTIAL SERVICE
TRANSMISSION FLUID CHECK
M1231021400050
1. Drive the vehicle until the transmission fluid temperature
rises to the normal operating temperature [70
− 80°C (158 −
176
°F)].
NOTE: The transmission fluid temperature is measured with
scan tool MB991958 (MUT-III sub assembly).
NOTE: If it takes some amount of time until the transmission
fluid reaches its normal operating temperature [70
−
80
°
C
(158
−
176
°
F)], check the transmission fluid level by refer-
ring to the left diagram.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
3. Move the selector lever through all positions to fill the torque
converter and the hydraulic circuits with fluid, and then move
the selector lever to the "N" position.
4. After wiping off any dirt around the dipstick, remove the
dipstick and check the condition of the transmission fluid.
NOTE: If the transmission fluid smells as if it is burnt, it
means that the transmission fluid has been contaminated by
fine particles from the bushings and friction materials. Tran-
saxle overhaul and cooler line flushing may be necessary.
5. Check transmission fluid level is at the "HOT" mark on the
dipstick. If the transmission fluid level is less than this, add
DIAMOND ATF SP III until the level reaches the "HOT"
mark.
NOTE: If the transmission fluid level is too low, the oil pump
will draw in air along with the transmission fluid, which will
cause to form bubbles. If the transmission fluid level is too
high, rotating components inside the transaxle will churn the
fluid and air into a foamy liquid. Both conditions (level too
low or too high) will cause the hydraulic pressure to drop,
which will result in late shifting and slipping of the clutches
and brakes.
NOTE: In either case, air bubbles can interfere with normal
valve, clutch, and brake operation. Also, foaming can cause
transmission fluid to escape from the transaxle vent where it
may be mistaken for a leak.
6. Securely insert the dipstick.
NOTE: The transmission fluid should always be replaced
under the following conditions:
.
•
When troubleshooting the transaxle.
•
When overhauling the transaxle.
•
When the transmission fluid is noticeably dirty or burnt
(driving under severe conditions).
AC005860
80
DIPSTICK
60
40
(176)
(140)
(104)
FLUID TEMPERATURE [˚C (˚F)]
– 30 (– 1.2)
– 20 (– 0.8)
– 10 (– 0.4)
0 (0)
10 (0.4)
FLUID LEVEL [mm (in)]
AB
AC106828AB