Preliminary Inspection
Visually inspect all electrical wiring, looking for chafed, stretched, cut or pinched wiring. Ensure electrical connectors fit tightly and are not corroded. Ensure vacuum hoses are properly routed, and are not pinched or cut. Inspect air induction system for possible vacuum leaks. Check PCM, sensors and actuators for physical damage. Check engine coolant level. Check transmission fluid level and condition.
Before vehicle is driven, ensure fluid is above DO NOT DRIVE hole on dipstick. See Fig 1 or Fig 2 . Drive vehicle about 20 miles, until transaxle is at normal operating temperature. Transaxle must be at normal operating temperature to ensure correct fluid level check.
Fluid level should be checked with vehicle on level surface. Start engine and shift transaxle into each gear position, ensuring each gear engages. Check fluid level in Park position with engine at idle. Fluid level should be within cross-hatched area of dipstick. Ensure the following:
- Use only Mercon-V transmission fluid.
- If transaxle fluid is excessively hot, allow vehicle to cool for 30 minutes prior to checking fluid level. Excessive heat build-up due to high speed operation, trailer towing, or operation in hot weather will affect fluid level.
- DO NOT overfill transaxle. Fluid will foam and may cause transaxle malfunction. Excessive fluid must be removed.
- Add fluid in 1/2 pint (.25 L) increments.
