2. Checking the transmission fluid level should be done only on a warmed up vehicle (having a normal operating temperature) gearbox. The gearbox of a car is considered warmed up immediately after driving for at least 16 km (24 km in cold weather), the temperature of the liquid is 72°-80°C.
Caution: If the vehicle has been driven for a long time at high speed or in heavy city driving in hot weather, or if it has been heavily loaded immediately before the check, it will not be possible to obtain the correct fluid level. Under these circumstances, allow the fluid to cool for a while (approximately 30 minutes).
3. After parking the vehicle on a level, horizontal surface, apply the parking brake and start the engine. With the engine idling, depress the brake pedal and move the gear selector lever through all positions three times, each time starting and ending in position P.
4. Let the engine idle for one minute, then (with the engine still running) remove the dipstick from the tube. Pay attention to the condition and color of the fluid on the dipstick.
5. Wipe the fluid off the dipstick with a clean cloth and reinsert the dipstick into the tube up to the base of the cap.
6. Remove the dipstick from the tube again and measure the fluid level. The level should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the dipstick (see Figure 34.6). If the level is at the "MIN" mark, stop the engine and add the specified transmission fluid through the level tube, using a clean funnel if necessary. It is important to prevent dirt from getting into the gearbox.
Figure 34.6. "MAX" and "MIN" marks on the transmission fluid level dipstick.
7. Add fluid in small portions, checking the level each time using the method described above, until you reach the correct level.
8. The need for frequent fluid top-up indicates a leak that needs to be found and corrected.
9. At the same time as checking the level, the condition of the fluid should also be checked. If the fluid at the end of the dipstick is black or dark reddish-brown, or if it smells burnt, replace the fluid. If you are unsure about the condition of the fluid, purchase some fresh fluid and compare the color and smell of both fluids.