Malibu L4-2.4L Hybrid (2008)
Important:
*
If the TFT reading is not at the required temperature, allow the vehicle to cool, or operate the vehicle until the appropriate TFT is
reached. If the fluid temperature is below the specified range, perform the following procedure to raise the fluid temperature to the
specification.
*
Check the transmission fluid level when the TFT is at between 85-95°C (185-203°F). The fluid level rises as fluid temperature
increases, so it is important to ensure the transmission fluid temperature is at the specified temperature.
Drive the vehicle in second gear until the fluid temperature is at the specified temperature.
5. The vehicle must be level, with the engine running and the shift lever in the PARK range.
6. Remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel.
7. Inspect the fluid color. The fluid should be red or dark brown.
*
If the fluid color is very dark or black and has a burnt odor, inspect the fluid for excessive metal particles or other debris. A small amount of
"friction" material is a "normal" condition. If large pieces and/or metal particles are noted in the fluid, flush the oil cooler and cooler lines and
overhaul the transmission. If there are no signs of transmission internal damage noted, replace the fluid, repair the oil cooler, and flush the
cooler lines.
*
Fluid that is cloudy or milky or appears to be contaminated with water indicates engine coolant or water contamination. Refer to Engine
Coolant/Water in Transmission (See: Transmission and Drivetrain/Automatic Transmission/Transaxle/Testing and Inspection/Symptom
Related Diagnostic Procedures/6T40/6T45 - Automatic Transmission/Engine Coolant/Water in Transmission) .
8. Install the dipstick. Wait three seconds and then remove it again.
Important: Always check the fluid level at least twice. Consistent readings are important to maintaining proper fluid level. If inconsistent
readings are noted, inspect the transmission vent cap to ensure it is clean and unclogged.
Important: It is not necessary to get the fluid level all the way up to the MAX mark. Anywhere within the crosshatch band is acceptable.
9. Check both sides of the dipstick and read the lower level.
10. Install and remove the dipstick again to verify the reading.
Important: Do not add more than one half pint (0.25L) at a time without rechecking the level. Once the oil is on the dipstick bullet, it will
not take much more fluid to raise the fluid level into the crosshatch band. Do not overfill. Also, if the fluid level is low, inspect the
transmission for leaks. Refer to Fluid Leak Diagnosis (See: Transmission and Drivetrain/Automatic Transmission/Transaxle/Testing and
Inspection/Component Tests and General Diagnostics/6T40/6T45 - Automatic Transmission/Fluid Leak Diagnosis) .
11. If the fluid level is not within the crosshatch band, and the transmission temperature is at 90°C (194°F), add or drain fluid as necessary to bring the
level into the crosshatch band. If the fluid level is low, add only enough fluid to bring the level into the crosshatch band.
12. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, install the dipstick.
13. If the fluid was changed, reset the transmission oil life monitor if applicable.
Fluid Condition Inspection
*
Inspect the fluid color. The fluid should be red in color. The fluid may also turn brown form normal use, and does not always indicate
contamination.
Important: Fluid that is very dark or black and has a burnt odor usually indicates contamination or overheating.
*
If the fluid color is very dark or black and has a burnt odor, inspect the fluid for excessive metal particles or other debris which may indicate
transmission damage. Refer to Road Test (See: Transmission and Drivetrain/Automatic Transmission/Transaxle/Testing and Inspection/Initial
Inspection and Diagnostic Overview/6T40/6T45 - Automatic Transmission) to verify transmission operation. Change the transmission fluid if no
other conditions are found.
*
Fluid that is cloudy or milky or appears to be contaminated with water indicates engine coolant or water contamination. Refer to Engine
Coolant/Water in Transmission (See: Transmission and Drivetrain/Automatic Transmission/Transaxle/Testing and Inspection/Symptom Related
Diagnostic Procedures/6T40/6T45 - Automatic Transmission/Engine Coolant/Water in Transmission) .
