How To Check Automatic Transaxle Fluid; Checking The Fluid Level - Pontiac 2005 Montana SV6 Owner's Manual

How to Check Automatic
Transaxle Fluid
Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may
choose to have this done at the dealership service
department.
If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions
here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.
Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage the
transaxle. Too much can mean that some of the fluid
could come out and fall on hot engine or exhaust
system parts, starting a fire. Too little fluid could
cause the transaxle to overheat. Be sure to get an
accurate reading if you check the transaxle fluid.
Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle
fluid level if you have been driving:
•
When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C).
•
At high speed for quite a while.
•
In heavy traffic — especially in hot weather.
•
While pulling a trailer.
To get the right reading, the fluid should be at
normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F
(82°C to 93°C).
Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles
(24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F
(10°C). If it is colder than 50°F (10°C), you may have to
drive longer.
5-20

Checking the Fluid Level

Prepare your vehicle as follows:
1. Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine
running.
2. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever
in PARK (P).
3. With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift
lever through each gear range, pausing for about
three seconds in each range. Then, position
the shift lever in PARK (P).
4. Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes.
Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these
steps:
1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or
paper towel.
The automatic transaxle dipstick is located toward
the back of the engine compartment, next to
the brake master cylinder reservoir. The dipstick
handle is a red loop. See Engine Compartment
Overview on page 5-12 for more information
on location.
2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds, and
then pull it back out again.