Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid Level

EVERY 90,000 KM

PROCEDURE

1. Check the transmission fluid level at the intervals specified in the Specifications. Perform this procedure only after the engine has reached the temperature indicated below.

2. The transmission fluid level in the automatic transmission depends on the fluid temperature. Normally the level remains constant unless leaks are visible. In that case, there is no need to check the fluid level. It is recommended to perform this work at an AUDI service station.

3. Before starting work, obtain the transmission fluid specified in the Routine Maintenance and Servicing section, as well as a new filler plug seal and a new safety cap for the plug. Wear safety glasses when checking the level and changing the fluid.

4. Other tools required for this procedure are vehicle support stands, a drain container of at least 4–5 liters, newspapers and clean rags.

CAUTION

Do not start the engine if the transmission is not filled with fluid. Towing the vehicle without ATF is also not permitted.

Maintain strict cleanliness during all work, as even minor contamination leads to automatic transmission malfunctions.

5. Raise the vehicle with a jack and securely support it on stands.

CAUTION

The transmission fluid temperature when checking the level must not exceed +30°C. This temperature is reached after the engine has run briefly. AUDI service workshops use a diagnostic tester to monitor the temperature. Without this tester, the temperature can only be estimated approximately.

6. When checking the ATF level, the fluid temperature must not exceed +30°C.

7. The selector lever must be in position "P", and the air conditioning and heating must be switched off.

8. Place a container under the drain to catch the ATF. Unscrew the plug (arrow in the illustration). Fluid in the overflow tube will drip out.

9. Cut the sealing ring on the threaded plug with side cutters and replace it.

10. Start the engine and let it run until the fluid temperature reaches +35°C.

11. If fluid flows out of the overflow tube at a temperature between +35°C and +45°C, the fluid level is correct. In this case, install the plug with a new gasket and tighten it to 15 N·m torque.

If no fluid flows out, add ATF. Checking Fluid Condition

12. When checking the automatic transmission fluid level, also check the fluid condition. To simplify the check, compare the color, smell and viscosity of the fluid with new fluid.

If the transmission fluid is milky in color, water has entered it. This can happen when the vehicle is driven constantly on short trips. If the fluid color does not change after a long drive, the fluid must be replaced.

13. If the fluid is dark brown and sticky, this may be caused by overheating of the transmission or too high a fluid level in the transmission. If fluid replacement does not solve the problem, the vehicle must be taken to a specialized AUDI workshop.

If dirt particles or metal shavings are found when checking the level or changing the fluid in the automatic transmission, diagnose or repair the automatic transmission at a specialized AUDI service station.

Filling ATF

14. Hang the reservoir with ATF of the specified type near the hood. The illustration shows reservoir V.A.G 1924 and diagnostic tester for temperature control V.A.G 1551.

15. Using a screwdriver, pry off and remove the protective cap of the plug (arrow in the illustration). The cap is damaged during removal and must be replaced with a new one. It protects the plug seat.

16. Remove the plug from the filler neck.

17. Install oil filling reservoir V.A.G 1924 and fill with ATF until it flows out of the check hole (arrow in the illustration).

18. Start the engine and, without moving the vehicle, cycle the selector lever through all positions.

19. Tighten plug –1– with a new gasket to 15 N·m.

20. Install the plug into the filler neck, fit a new protective cap –2– and secure it.

CAUTION

Always replace the safety cap with a new one. It protects the plug.

21. Switch off the ignition and disconnect the diagnostic tester, if connected.