Automatic Transmission Fluid

Checking 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 fluid level according to the following procedure.

1. Move the shift lever to the N (Neutral) position and make sure the engine is running at normal idle speed.

NOTICE

Insert the level gauge after checking the automatic transmission fluid level. In the direction shown in the illustration.

CAUTION

If the level gauge is inserted in the wrong direction, it may cause the level gauge to deform (or become damaged).

2. After warming up the transmission, drive the vehicle for about 10 minutes under normal conditions until the fluid temperature reaches 70~80 °C. Move the shift lever through all positions, then place the shift lever in the N (Neutral) or P (Park) position.

3. Make sure the fluid level is within the "HOT" range on the level indicator. If the fluid level is low, add the specified fluid through the filler hole. If the fluid level is high, drain fluid through the drain hole.

4. If the fluid level is checked when cold [fluid temperature 20~30 °C], add fluid to the "COLD" mark, then recheck the fluid level as described in step 2 above.

WARNING

Automatic transmission fluid

The transmission fluid level must be checked when the engine is at normal operating temperature. This means the engine, radiator, radiator hose and exhaust system, etc. are very hot. Use extreme caution to avoid burns during this procedure.

CAUTION

• Low fluid level causes transmission shift slipping. Overfilling may cause foaming, fluid loss and transmission malfunction.
• Using a non-specified fluid may cause transmission malfunction and failure.

WARNING

Parking Brake

To avoid sudden vehicle movement, apply the parking brake and depress the brake pedal before moving the shift lever.

NOTICE

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

NOTICE

New automatic transmission fluid must be red. Red dye is added so that the assembly plant can identify it as automatic transmission fluid and distinguish it from engine oil or antifreeze. The red dye is not a fluid quality indicator and is not permanent. As the vehicle is driven, the automatic transmission fluid will begin to look darker. The color may eventually appear light brown.

Use only the specified automatic transmission fluid. (Refer to "Recommended Lubricants and Capacities" on page 9-11.)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Replacement

Have the automatic transmission fluid changed at a professional workshop according to the "Maintenance Schedule" on page 8-11. Kia recommends visiting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.