Sable V6-183 3.0L VIN U FI (1998)
Fluid - A/T: Testing and Inspection
AX4N
Fluid Condition
Make the normal fluid level check.
Observe the color and odor of the fluid. It should be red, not brown or black. The odor may indicate an overheating condition or a clutch disc or band
failure.
Use a clean, lint-free cloth and wipe the fluid level indicator. Examine the stain for evidence of solid particles and for engine coolant signs (gum or
varnish on the fluid level indicator).
If particles are present in the fluid or there is evidence of engine coolant or water, the transaxle pan must be removed for further inspection. If fluid
contamination or transaxle failure is confirmed by further evidence of coolant or excessive particles in the transaxle pan, the transaxle must be
disassembled and completely cleaned and serviced. This includes cleaning and flushing the torque converter and transmission fluid cooling system.
During disassembly and assembly, all overhaul checks and adjustments of clearances and end play must be made. After the transaxle has been
serviced, all diagnostic tests and adjustments listed in the diagnostic charts must be completed to make sure that the problem has been corrected.
Fluid Level Check
NOTE: If the vehicle has been operating for an extended period at high speeds or in city traffic during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the engine
should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking.
Under normal circumstances, you need to check the fluid level at about 48,000 Km (30,000 miles) or 34,000 Km (21,000 miles) severe duty.
However, if the transaxle is not working properly, for instance the transaxle may slip or shift slowly or you may notice some sign of fluid leakage, the
fluid level should be checked.
It is preferable to check the fluid level at normal operating temperature after approximately 32 km (20 miles) of driving. However, if necessary, you
can check the fluid level without having to drive 32 km (20 miles) to obtain normal operating temperature if the outside temperature is above 10°C (50
°F).
With the vehicle on a level surface, start the engine and move the selector lever through all of the gear ranges, allowing sufficient time for each
position to engage. Securely engage the selector lever in PARK position, fully set the parking brake and leave the engine running. Wipe off the fluid
level indicator cap, pull the fluid level indicator out and wipe clean. Put the fluid level indicator back into the filler tube and make sure it is seated
properly. Pull out the fluid level indicator and read the fluid level.
CAUTION: Your vehicle should not be driven if the fluid level is below the bottom hole on the fluid level indicator and the outside temperature is
above 10°C (50°F).
When checking fluid at normal operating temperature, the fluid level should be within the crosshatched area or HOT marked area on the fluid level
indicator. When the vehicle has not been driven, and the outside temperature is above 10°C (50°F), the fluid level should be between the hole and the
lower edge of the crosshatched area on the fluid level indicator.
HIGH OR LOW FLUID LEVEL
A fluid level that is too high may cause the fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating parts of the transaxle. Aerated fluid will
cause erratic line pressure, which may result in harsh/soft shifts or engagements, damage to the clutch material, improper torque converter operation
and fluid coming out of the vent. If fluid level is high, excess fluid MUST be removed. Refer to Transmission Fluid Drain and Refill for proper
procedures.
REMOVING EXCESS FLUID
A fluid level that is too low will affect transaxle operation, such as; slipping, slow engagements, damage to internal hardware. Low levels may also
indicate that a leak is present in the fluid system. If fluid level was low, add fluid using procedures listed under Adding Fluid.
ADDING FLUID
If you need to add fluid, first check for the correct fluid type (MERCON V) stamped on the fluid level indicator. Before adding any fluid, be sure that
