Checking the Automatic Transmission Fluid Level

The automatic transmission fluid level should be checked regularly.

Park the vehicle on a level surface with the parking brake applied, and check the transmission fluid level by following the procedure below.

1. Move the shift lever to the N (Neutral) position and let the engine run at normal idle speed.

2. After the transmission has warmed up sufficiently [fluid temperature 70~80 °C], for example after 10 minutes of normal driving, move the shift lever through all positions, then place the shift lever in N (Neutral) or P (Park).

3. Make sure the fluid level is within the "HOT" range of the dipstick. If the level is low, add fluid through the filler port. If the level is high, drain fluid through the drain hole.

4. If the fluid level is checked under cold conditions [coolant temperature 20~30 °C], add fluid up to the "COLD" line, then recheck the fluid level by repeating step 2.

WARNING

Transmission Fluid

The transmission fluid level should be checked when the engine is warmed up to normal operating temperature. This means the engine, radiator, radiator hose and exhaust system, etc. are very hot. Be careful not to burn yourself during this procedure.

NOTICE

• Low fluid level causes transmission slipping. Overfilling may cause foaming, fluid loss or transmission malfunction.
• Using unspecified fluid may cause transmission malfunctions.

Intelligent

The "COLD" line is for reference only and MUST NOT be used to determine the transmission fluid level.

WARNING

Parking Brake

To prevent sudden vehicle movement, apply the parking brake and depress the brake pedal before moving the shift lever out of Park.

Intelligent

Automatic transmission fluid must be red. Red dye is added so that the assembly plant can identify it as ATF and distinguish it from engine oil or antifreeze. Red dye is not an indicator of fluid quality and does not wear off. The more the vehicle is driven, the darker the automatic transmission fluid becomes. Over time the color may turn light brown. Therefore, we recommend that you have the fluid replaced by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer in accordance with your maintenance schedule at the beginning of this chapter.

Use only specified automatic transmission fluid. (Refer to the "Recommended Lubricants and Capacities" section in Chapter 8.)