Automatic transaxle

Checking the automatic


Checking the automatic transaxle fluid level
The automatic transaxle fluid level should be checked regularly.

Keep the vehicle on the level ground with the parking brake applied and check the fluid level according to the following procedure.

1. Place the selector lever in N (Neutral) position and confirm the engine is running at normal idle speed.

2. After the transaxle is warmed up sufficiently (fluid temperature 70~80 °C (158~176 °F)), for example by 10 minutes usual driving, shift the selector lever through all positions then place the selector lever in N (Neutral) or P (Park) position.

3. Confirm that the fluid level is in


3. Confirm that the fluid level is in “HOT” range on the level gauge. If the fluid level is lower, add the specified fluid from the fill hole. If the fluid level is higher, drain the fluid from the drain hole.

4. If the fluid level is checked in cold condition (fluid temperature 20~ 30 °C (68~86 °F) add the fluid to “COLD” line and then recheck the fluid level according to the above step 2.

WARNING - Transaxle
fluid
The transaxle fluid level should be checked when the engine is at normal operating temperature.

This means that the engine, radiator, radiator hose and exhaust system etc., are very hot.

Exercise great care not to burn yourself during this procedure.

CAUTION
• Low fluid level causes transaxle slippage. Overfilling can cause foaming, loss of fluid and transaxle malfunction.

• The use of a non-specified fluid could result in transaxle malfunction and failure.

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

NOTICE
“COLD” scale is for reference only and should NOT be used to determine transaxle fluid level.

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

Therefore, have an Authorized Kia dealer change the automatic transaxle fluid according to the Scheduled Maintenance at the beginning of this section.

Changing the automatic transaxle fluid
Have automatic transaxle fluid changed by an Authorized Kia Dealer according to the Maintenance Schedule at the beginning of this section.

    See also:

    Tire specification and pressure label
    The tires supplied on your new vehicle are chosen to provide the best performance for normal driving. The tire label located on the driver's side center pillar gives the tire pressures recommend ...

    Battery
    WARNING - Battery dangers Always read the following instructions carefully when handling a battery. Keep lighted cigarettes and all other flames or sparks away from the battery. Hydrogen, whic ...

    Emergency starting
    Connect cables in numerical order and disconnect in reverse order. Jump starting Jump starting can be dangerous if done incorrectly. Therefore, to avoid harm to yourself or damage to your vehic ...