Vauxhall Workshop Service and Repair Manuals

Transmission Fluid Level Inspection

Caution:  Use Dexron VI transmission fluid only. Failure to use the proper fluid may result in transmission internal damage.

Note:  Ensure the transmission has enough fluid in it to start the vehicle safely without damaging the transmission. With the vehicle off and the transmission fluid temperature at approximately 20-25°C (68-77°F) there must be at least enough fluid to drain out of the fluid level hole. This will ensure that there is enough fluid in the sump to fill the components once the vehicle is started.

Oil Level Checking Procedure

1. Start the engine.
2. Depress the brake pedal and move the gear lever through each gear range, pausing for about 3 seconds in each range. Then move the gear lever back to PARK (P).
3. Allow the engine to idle 500-800 rpm for at least 3 minutes to allow any fluid frothing to dissipate and the fluid level to stabilise. Release the brake pedal.

Caution:  The transmission fluid level must be checked when the transmission fluid temperature (TFT) is at 85-95°C (185-203°F). If the TFT is not at this temperature, operate the vehicle or allow the fluid to cool as required. Setting the fluid level with a TFT outside this temperature will result in either an under or over-filled transmission. TFT over 95°C under-filled, TFT under 85°C over-filled. An under-filled transmission will cause premature component wear or damage. An over-filled transmission will cause fluid to discharge out the vent tube, fluid foaming, or pump cavitation.

4. Keep the engine running and observe the transmission fluid temperature (TFT) using the Driver Information Centre or a scan tool.
5. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. The vehicle must be level, with the engine running and the gear lever in the PARK range.






Warning:  When the transmission is at operating temperatures, take necessary precautions when removing the check/fill plug, to avoid being burned by draining fluid.

Note:  Drain the fluid into a drip pan.

6. While the vehicle is idling, remove the fluid level plug (3). Allow any fluid to drain.

•	If the fluid is flowing as a steady stream, wait until the fluid begins to drip. Continue with step 14.

•	If no fluid comes out, add fluid until fluid drips out. Continue with step 7.

7. Lower the vehicle.
8. Remove transmission vent hose (2).
9. Remove the transmission fluid filler cap (1).
10. While the vehicle is idling, add fluid through fluid filler cap hole, until fluid is flowing as a stream out of fluid level plug hole. Wait until the fluid drips out of fluid level plug hole.
11. Install the transmission fluid filler cap.
12. Install the transmission vent hose.
13. Raise the vehicle.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

14. Install the fluid level plug and tighten to  12 N·m (106 lb in) .
15. Lower the vehicle.
16. Inspect for external leaks. Refer to Fluid Leak Diagnosis .