Forenza L4-2.0L (2004)
Fluid - A/T: Service and Repair
Transaxle Fluid Level Service
Transaxle Fluid Level Service
This procedure is to be used when checking a concern with the fluid level in a vehicle. A low fluid level will result in slipping and loss of drive/reverse
or delay on engagement of drive/reverse when the vehicle is cold.
The vehicle is first checked for transaxle diagnostic messages on the scan tool. If the oil level is low, it is possible to register a vehicle speed signal fault.
The vehicle is to be test driven to determine if there is an abnormal delay when selecting drive or reverse, or loss of drive. One symptom of low fluid
level is a momentary loss of drive when driving the vehicle around a corner. Also when the transaxle fluid level is low, a loss of drive may occur when
the transaxle fluid temperature is low.
When adding or changing transaxle fluid use ESSO LT 71141 or TOTAL ATF H50235 automatic transaxle fluid or other approved fluids. The use of
incorrect fluid will cause the performance and durability of the transaxle to be severely degraded.
Fluid Level Diagnosis Procedure
1. If the vehicle is at operating temperature allow the vehicle to cool down for two hours, but no greater than four hours. Or if the vehicle is at
cool status, start the engine and allow the engine to idle for approximately 5 minutes (825 - 875 rpm), if possible, drive the vehicle for a few km
(N - D, N - R, shift until two gear). This will allow the transaxle to be within the correct temperature range. Transaxle fluid level should be
checked at temperature 20 - 45 °C (68 - 113 °F).
2. Switch off accessories, especially air conditioner, heater.
3. With the brake pedal pressed, move the gear shift control lever through the gear ranges, pausing a few seconds in each range. Return the gearshift
lever to P (Park). Turn the engine OFF.
4. Park the vehicle on a hoist, inspection pit or similar raised level surface. The vehicle must be level to obtain a correct fluid level measurement.
5. Place a fluid container below the fluid filler plug.
6. Clean all dirt from around the fluid filler plug.
Remove the fluid filler plug. Clean the filler plug and check that there is no damage to the "O" ring.
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If fluid drains through the filler hole the transaxle may have been overfilled. When the fluid stops draining the fluid level is correct. Install the
fluid filler plug and tighten it to 45 Nm (34 ft. lbs.).
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If fluid does not drain through the filler hole, the transaxle fluid level may be low. Lower the vehicle, and start the vehicle in P (Park) with the
parking brake and the brake applied. With the engine idling, move the gear shift lever through the gear ranges, pausing a few seconds in each
range and adding the fluid until gear application is felt. Return the gear shift lever to P (Park). Turn the engine OFF and raise the vehicle.
Check if the fluid level is aligned with the bottom of the filler hole. If not, add a small quantity of fluid to the correct level. Install the fluid
filler plug and tighten it to 45 Nm (34 ft. lbs.).
7. When the fluid level checking procedure is completed, wipe any fluid around the filler plug with a rag or shop towel.
Fluid Level Set after Service
1. Depending on the service procedure performed, add the following amounts of fluid through the filler plug hole prior to adjusting the fluid level:
Oil pan removal - 4 liters (4.23 quarts)
Converter removal - 2 liters (2.11 quarts)
Overhaul 6.9 ± 0.2 liters (7.3 ± 0.2 quarts)
Oil drain plug removal - 4 liters (4.23 quarts)
2. Follow steps 1 through 4 of the Fluid Level Diagnosis Procedure.
3. Clean all dirt from around the fluid filler plug.
Remove the fluid filler plug. Clean the filler plug and check that there is no damage to the "O" ring.
4. Lower the vehicle with the filler plug still removed and start the vehicle in P (Park) with the parking brake and the brake applied. With the engine
idling, move the gear shift lever through the gear ranges, pausing a few seconds in each range and adding the fluid until gear application is felt.
Then add an additional 0.5 liters of fluid. Return the gear shift lever to P (Park). Turn the engine OFF and raise the vehicle. Install the fluid filler
plug and tighten it to 45 Nm (34 ft. lbs.).
5. Drive the vehicle at 3.5 - 4.5 km (2.2 - 2.8 miles) with light throttle so that the engine does not exceed 2,500 rpm. This should result in the
transaxle temperature being in the range 20 - 45 °C (68 - 113 °F). With the brake applied, move the shift lever through the gear ranges, pausing a
few seconds in each range at the engine idling.
6. Return the gear shift lever to P (Park). Turn the engine OFF and raise the vehicle on the hoist, if applicable, ensuring the vehicle is level. When the
three minutes passed after the engine stopped, remove the filler plug. Check if the fluid level is aligned with the bottom of the filler hole. If not,
add a small quantity of fluid to the correct level. Install the fluid filler plug and tighten it to 45 Nm (34 ft. lbs.).
