Honda 2005 Civic Owner's Manual page 165

Automatic Transmission Fluid
DIPSTICK (CVT)
UPPER MARK
LOWER MARK
On CVT model
Remove the dipstick and check the
fluid level. There is a HOT side and a
COLD side on the dipstick. It should
be between the upper and lower
marks on the HOT side.
166
5. If the level is below the lower
mark, add fluid into the filler hole
to bring it to the upper mark (On
CVT model, the HOT side's upper
mark).
Pour the fluid slowly and carefully
so you do not spill any. Clean up
any spills immediately; it could
damage components in the engine
compartment.
Always use Honda ATF-Z1
(Automatic Transmission Fluid). If
it's not available, you may use a
DEXRON III automatic
transmission fluid as a temporary
replacement. However, continued
use can affect the shift quality.
Have the transmission flushed and
refilled with Honda ATF-Z1 as
soon as it is convenient.
To thoroughly flush the transmission,
the technician should drain and refill
it with Honda ATF-Z1, then drive the
vehicle for a short distance. Do this
three times. Then drain and refill the
transmission a final time.
6. Insert the dipstick all the way back
into the transmission securely as
shown in the illustration.
The transmission should be drained
and refilled with new fluid according
to the time and distance recommen-
dations in the maintenance schedule.
If you are not sure how to add fluid,
contact your dealer.