Alphabetical Index

General Information & Maintenance
FLUIDS AND LUBRICANTS

Manual Transaxle

In manual transaxle equipped models, the transaxle and drive axle share a common supply of lubricant. On all models, the lubricant level should be checked at regular intervals and changed at 30,000 mile (48,300 km) intervals. When the vehicle is frequently operated under severe conditions, the lubricant should be changed at 15,000 mile (24,000 km) intervals.


FLUID RECOMMENDATIONS

When changing the fluid, use API GL-5 hypoid gear oil in one of the following viscosities:




LEVEL CHECK
See Figures 1 and 2

Fig. 1: Manual transaxle dipstick-all models except Justy

Fig. 2: Justy manual transaxle dipstick

The level is checked with a dipstick in much the same manner as the engine oil level. The fluid should be checked at the same intervals as the engine oil. The dipstick is located at the right rear of the transaxle housing.

Be careful not to confuse it with the engine oil dipstick, which is located on the same side of the engine.

Check the transaxle oil level with the car parked on a level surface and the engine stopped. The engine should be stopped for at least three minutes before the transaxle oil level is checked.

Pull the dipstick out and wipe it with a clean cloth. Insert the dipstick again and then remove it. The oil level should be between the upper F (FULL) and lower L (LOW) marks. If it is below L, replenish it through the dipstick opening with GL-5 hypoid gear oil, of proper weight. Add a little oil at a time. The distance between the marks on the dipstick is less than a pint. Do not overfill.



DRAIN AND REFILL
  1. Raise and support the vehicle safely.
  2. Place a container of adequate capacity beneath the drain plug which is located underneath the car, on the bottom of the transaxle housing.
  3. Use the proper size wrench or socket and ratchet to loosen the drain plug slowly while maintaining a slight upward pressure. This will keep the oil from leaking out around the plug. The drain plug is located at the bottom center of the transaxle case.
  4. Allow all of the lubricant to drain from the transaxle, then install the drain plug and gasket (if so equipped). Tighten the drain plug to 30-35 ft. lbs. (41-47 Nm).
  5. Remove the transaxle dipstick and fill the transaxle to the correct capacity. Do not overfill.
  6. Use the dipstick to check the level. It should come up to the F (FULL) mark.


END OF SECTION